Commissioners Recognize Carroll County Farm Museum’s 60th Anniversary

Westminster, MD, Friday, August 7, 2026 – Yesterday in Open Session, the Carroll County Board of Commissioners presented a proclamation honoring the 60th Anniversary of the Carroll County Farm Museum. The official anniversary is August 13, 2026.

Carroll County Farm Museum Manager Jane Sewell attended the event and recognized members of the Farm Museum Advisory Board and other museum staff who were present for the recognition. Ms. Sewell began the session by giving a brief account of the site’s evolution from the 1853 County Home Farm to the 1966 Carroll County Farm Museum. She later added, “Like a diamond formed over time, the Farm Museum has been shaped by dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters. This anniversary is a celebration of our shared history and our bright future.”

Originally known as the County Home, or Almshouse, the property served Carroll County from 1853 to 1965, providing care for the poor and needy of the county. When the decision was made to close Almshouse, there was considerable discussion about the future of the land and buildings. Portions of the property had already been set aside for the county hospital and the county fairgrounds, but slightly more than 100 acres remained. Through the organization of a dedicated Board of Directors and the tireless efforts of Landon C. Burns, Agriculture Extension Office Agent, the Carroll County Farm Museum was established. The Farm Museum officially opened its doors to the public on August 13, 1966.

Commissioner Vigliotti shared, “Historically, and to this day, farming is central to our identity as a community. Carroll County could not exist as it does without its farmers and so protecting agriculture, through our preservation program and the Farm Museum, ensures that the County keeps hold of its past as well as its pathway through the future. By understanding how our farms once functioned, we have a greater respect for how difficult and vital that way of life has been and remains. And so, it matters that we not only support our Farm Museum but celebrate its own storied history of preserving the agricultural tapestry that helps form the place that we call home.”

Since opening, the Farm Museum has inspired countless children, families, students, volunteers, artisans, historians, and visitors by bringing history to life through hands-on learning, historic trades, living history programs, and agricultural education. They also hosted countless festivals, picnics, family gatherings and community celebrations. Today, the Farm Museum remains a beautiful open space where visitors can enjoy nature while learning about Carroll County’s agricultural past.

With yesterday’s proclamation, the Board of Carroll County Commissioners celebrates the Farm Museum’s six decades of preserving the past while inspiring future generations to appreciate the history, traditions and people who helped shape Carroll County. Commissioner Tom Gordon read the proclamation and gave high accolades to the Farm Museum staff, saying, “They are unsung heroes and put their heart and soul into their work and we thank all of the staff for their commitment to the Farm Museum.”

The Board encourages everyone to join in commemorating this milestone anniversary, visit the Carroll County Farm Museum and support its mission to preserve agricultural heritage for generations to come. For more information and a calendar of upcoming events, please visit the Carroll County Farm Museum website.

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Contact: Christine Cambareri
Public Relations
410-386-2043