Experience the holiday season at a local historic treasure. Historic Johnson Farm will be hosting a number of tours throughout December to allow visitors a chance to see the oldest brick house in Henderson County decorated for Christmas. During the weeks of December 5-9 and 12-16, the farm will host daytime Christmas tours. Guided tours are at 10:30 AM each day. While drop-ins are allowed, those with reservations take priority, so please consider making a reservation. Guided daytime tours are$15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors (65 and over), and free for those under 5. Each day, the farm house will be open for self-guided tours from 1-3 PM. Reservations are not needed for self-guided tours, and tickets cost $8 for adults, $5 for students and seniors (65 and over), and free for those under 5.

The farmhouse was built by hand from 1876-1880. It is believed to be the oldest standing brick home in Henderson County. The Christmas season was a special time for Johnson family members, who were known for their generosity. Their home was among the first in our county to get electricity. For many Christmas seasons, they placed their tree decorated with colorful lights on the front porch. Travelers enjoyed the glow of the display to and from town in the evenings. Throughout the year and especially at holidays, Sallie Johnson was known for her delicious cakes. The farm grounds were plush with greenery that was gathered to decorate their home. The celebration of Christmas was much simpler then.

The Christmas tours are important for the non-profit foundation that operates a heritage education center as part of Henderson County Public Schools. Events like this provide a significant portion of the farm’s operating expenses and educational experiences. The farm was a gift to the schoolchildren and the community by the late Vernon and Leander Johnson. It is owned by Henderson County Public Schools, and is managed by an Executive Director and the Historic Johnson Farm Foundation, Inc.