Drake Farmstead Park

Drake House Exterior

Dedicated to nature and history, this park is centered on the historic Drake House, former home of one the first families to settle in the Township. It features a new timber frame carriage barn that can be reserved for events and programs, walking trails, interpretive signs on nature and history, a picnic shelter, and parking lot. The park is open daily for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature. Tours of the historic house are available upon request by contacting the Oshtemo Historical Society.   

View dates and times available or to download a rental application - Carriage Barn

Park History

In 2004, Oshtemo Township purchased the historic brick farmhouse on this site to save it from demolition. That same year, the Oshtemo Historical Society formed to help guide restoration of the farmhouse. Over the following decade, the Township acquired 26 acres of the original farm. In 2015,  residents and Township officials envisioned the land and house becoming a place to take a walk, enjoy nature, and learn about the history of the Drake family and the surrounding area. The result is Drake Farmstead Park, which opened in 2021.

Though the land was farmed for centuries, many years of neglect allowed invasive trees, shrubs, and other plants to take over the land and farm buildings to deteriorate. Park volunteers are working to remove invasive plants and restore the native landscape. The old barns are long gone, but their foundations remain. Over time, they will be revealed to help us imagine the historic farmstead.

Barn Structure Complete

Woods at the Drake Framstead Park

Park Future

Eventually, our farm park will have a garden where you can learn to grow your own vegetables and fruits, historically-inspired flower beds, a gazebo for outdoor concerts and events, and a windmill like that of the Drakes.

Walking trail at Drake Farmstead Park

Location

927 N Drake Rd, Kalamazoo, MI 49006  View Map

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