Focus on Hanley Farm – Dec 2015/Jan 2016
In 1605, a “…tree in Strasbourg…was brought indoors and adorned with paper roses, lighted candles, wafers, nuts and sweets.” Throughout the centuries decorating for the holidays continued, and in the 1880’s, F.W. Woolworth began importing German ornaments. On December 27, you have the opportunity to travel back in time and enjoy a unique glimpse of life from a bygone era as you tour the Hanley Farmhouse, decorated in all its holiday finery! Costumed docents will guide you through the picturesque home and share holiday stories and the rich history of the Hanley family and farm. The tours run from 11:00am-3:00pm and the cost is $5/person, $3/SOHS members.
There is no better way to get the whole family into the holiday spirit than touring the fully-furnished and beautifully-embellished holiday exhibit of decorations, toys, ornaments, and clothing from the Southern Oregon Historical Society’s collection. Each room is themed in a different era, from the 1870’s through the 1950’s. This is the most festive and elaborate display in the Hanley House each year and it is sure to inspire you for your own tree trimming. Come learn about the Hanley family and be marveled by the old-fashioned warmth of the two-story farmhouse and tales of the past.
Three generations of Hanley’s lived in this beautiful home. Michael and Martha Hanley, builders of the house and two of Jackson county’s earliest settlers, started holiday traditions in the home in the late 19th century that endured until the 1980’s, through their children and then their granddaughters, affectionately called the Hanley sisters. Today, the home is preserved in its entirety, as carefully instructed by the Hanley sisters, to share with the community a glimpse into life in a bygone age.
For more information about Hanley Farm or upcoming events, please visit us online at www.sohs.org; call 541-773-6536 ext. 202; and LIKE our Hanley Farm Facebook page. Hanley Farm, owned and operated by the Southern Oregon Historical Society, is located at 1053 Hanley Road, between Jacksonville and Central Point.