Wessels Living History Farm Tour — York, Nebraska

Discover the Wessels Living History Farm Tour in Nebraska

Located in York, Nebraska, the Wessels Living History Farm Tour offers visitors a hands-on journey into 1920s farm life on the Great Plains. This living history attraction recreates a working farmstead complete with historic barns, livestock, crop fields, and costumed interpreters demonstrating traditional agricultural practices.

Guests experience how Nebraska farm families lived, worked, and adapted to rural life during the early 20th century.

Why it’s special: The Wessels Living History Farm Tour immerses visitors in authentic 1920s farm operations, making it one of Nebraska’s most interactive agricultural heritage experiences.

History & Story of Wessels Living History Farm

Established in 1986, Wessels Living History Farm was created to preserve Nebraska’s rural farming heritage and educate future generations about agricultural history. The site reflects a 1920s diversified farm typical of York County, complete with period-appropriate buildings and machinery.

The farm operates as a nonprofit educational organization, welcoming school groups, families, and history enthusiasts year-round.

What You’ll See & Do on the Wessels Living History Farm Tour

• Walk through a recreated 1920s farmstead
• Visit barns, outbuildings, and historic farm equipment displays
• Watch costumed interpreters demonstrate daily chores
• Learn about crop planting, harvesting, and livestock care
• Explore interactive exhibits explaining early mechanized farming

Hands-On Elements: Seasonal demonstrations and limited supervised participation in farm activities.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography is permitted throughout the farm grounds.

Souvenirs & Extras: Gift shop offering farm-themed merchandise, educational books, and locally inspired items.

Pricing of the Wessels Living History Farm Tour

Adult price: $8 per adult

Discounted rates may be available for seniors, youth, and school groups.

Visiting information for Wessels Living History Farm Tour

Duration: 60–120 minutes

Age limits: All ages welcome

Accessibility: Outdoor terrain includes grass and gravel paths; some historic buildings may have steps

Working Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday–Monday Closed

Advance notice is recommended for large group visits.

Nearby attractions to Wessels Living History Farm Tour

• Yorkshire Playhouse
• York Area Children’s Museum
• Harrison Park

FAQs About Visiting the Wessels Living History Farm Tour

Is this a working farm or a museum?
It is a living history museum that recreates an operational 1920s farm using historic methods and demonstrations.

Are there costumed interpreters on-site?
Yes. During regular hours and events, interpreters demonstrate farm chores and explain daily life in the 1920s.

Is the farm suitable for school field trips?
Yes. Wessels Living History Farm regularly hosts educational field trips and group visits.

Can visitors see farm animals?
Yes. The farm maintains livestock to reflect a traditional early 20th-century Nebraska farm.

How long should visitors plan for the tour?
Most guests spend between one and two hours exploring the farmstead and exhibits.