Historic gem: Mary Olson Farm reopens for summer visits

The Mary Olson Farm reopens for summer visits on Saturday, and will be open each Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. through Aug. 30.

June 19, 2015 2:22 pm
The Mary Olson Farm is a King County Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The farm operates as a living history and environmental learning site
The Mary Olson Farm is a King County Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The farm operates as a living history and environmental learning site

For the Reporter

The Mary Olson Farm reopens for summer visits on Saturday, and will be open each Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. through Aug. 30.

Often called the “best preserved historic farm in King County,” the farm is a rare gem. The 67-acre farm, at 28728 Green River Road SE, comprises much of the green, forested east hillside that forms the Auburn Valley. The farm features seven fully-restored historic buildings including a two-story 1902 farmhouse; 1897 Swedish-style hay barn; and outbuildings constructed around 1910 such as a smoke house, two-hole outhouse, chicken coop, garage and weaving house.

The rich and fully restored environment forms a backdrop for summer picnics and walks. Olson Stream runs through the farm and is the site of four runs of salmon each fall. The 100-plus-year-old orchard is thriving as is the newly planted farmhouse flower and vegetable garden, planted to follow the selections a farm wife may have made in 1902.

Be prepared to walk over a small hillside from parking, but it is worth the effort. Awaiting you are historic variety chickens, the Nubian goats Maija and Peach, two burros Daisy Mae and Donny, and two of the most friendly cows you will ever meet, Annabelle and Libby.

The farmstead features interpretive signs that tell the story of the Olsons, the farmland and about preserving the buildings and environment. Together, they take you on a nice introductory walk around the farm.

The farm is the recipient of two major awards. In 2011 Historic Seattle awarded it with Best Restoration and in 2013 the King Conservation District named it the Best Wildlife Preservation Farm in King County.

Admission to the farm is free, but donations are suggested at $5 for adult, $2 for children and seniors, or $10 for household.

FARM SUMMER 2015 EVENTS:

Regular drop-in Hours, Saturdays and Sundays, June 20 to Aug. 30, noon to 5 p.m., free

• Veggie Car Races, Saturday, July 11, 1-3 p.m.

• Auburn Symphony Orchestra presents Sunsets at the Mary Olson Farm Concert Series, July 9, 23, Aug. 6. Tickets at: www.auburnsymphony.org

• Mad Hatter’s Sweet Tea, Saturday, July 25, 1 p.m., registration required

• Hops & Crops Music and Beer Festival, Sept. 12, noon to 6 p.m. Tickets available online and at the gate.