Stepping Back in Time at The Homeplace in LBL
March 17, 2025 | Lydia
Hidden within the beauty of Land Between the Lakes, The Homeplace Working Farm and Living History Museum isn't just a museum; it's a time machine. I recently had the incredible opportunity to visit this unique attraction. From the moment I stepped onto the grounds, I was transported to a mid-Tennessee farm during the Victorian Era. Sixteen original log structures that have been preserved showed a great representation of what life was like on the farm. Walking through them, I could almost smell the woodsmoke and feel the routine of daily life. It was fascinating to observe how meals were cooked and homes were kept, a reminder of the comforts we often take for granted.
One of the highlights of my visit was witnessing a blacksmith at work in his shop, hammering and shaping red-hot metal. The clang of the hammer and the sparks flying from the forge were mesmerizing. I also loved the chickens that freely roamed the farm. And then there was the display of horse training, where a lady would run the horses around and get them to follow her with a simple chase – showing the deep connection between humans and animals.
For those with a green thumb, The Homeplace has a lot of horticultural knowledge. They cultivate heirloom vegetables, used in authentic 1850s dishes, and demonstrate traditional preservation methods. During weeding and harvest time, they even welcome extra hands to help with chores, offering a truly hands-on experience. And if you’re lucky, you might even snag some of their surplus heirloom seeds and vegetables!
Visiting The Homeplace is more than just a day trip; it’s an immersive journey into the past. It’s a chance to disconnect from the modern world and connect with the simple, yet fulfilling, life of the people before us. If you’re planning a visit to Kentucky Lake, make sure The Homeplace is on your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed.
Here's a video of my experience...