History of the Barns
Michelmersh Farm has been a working farm since at least the early 1800s. Before then, it is likely there was a farm on this site, being on the ancient route known as the Monarch's Way.
After the Napoleonic wars, when grain prices were high, large elm barns were built for storage. The brick barn housed the heavy horses.
In the 1970s most of the farm land was sold to neighbouring estates and the farm buildings became redundant. Local villagers wished to preserve the farmyard so in 1979 Old Michelmersh Farm Trust was formed.
The Trust's objectives were to preserve the property for the benefit of the community and to provide:
- facilities for functions
- additional places for work within the village
- retention of a typical historic farmyard while most are being destroyed or converted into houses.
The Trust is completely self supporting and almost all the restoration work and management has been undertaken by volunteers.
The Early Years of the Trust
Over the next decades a programme of restoration followed. The south west end of the long barns required to be completely replaced. The beams and slate roof were largely in good condition.
Work to renovate and maintain the barns and farmyard continues to this day.
Work Space and Activities
Alongside the restoration, we have provided space for a variety of activities including:
- violin making
- printing
- an electronics and software development laboratory
- research into mosquito control
- art studios and workshops.
