Discover the captivating charm of Coggeshall Farm Museum nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Colt State Park in Bristol, Rhode Island, USA.
Step back in time to the 18th century as you wander through 48 acres of pristine farmland, where history comes alive with dedicated interpreters and authentic reenactments of farm life circa 1799. It was here that the industrious Wilbur and Eliza Coggeshall toiled as tenant
farmers, laying the foundation for a legacy intertwined with Rhode Island's rich history.
Their son, Chandler Coggeshall, later rose to prominence as a distinguished politician, leaving an indelible mark on the region's educational landscape by aiding in the establishment of what we now know as the esteemed University of Rhode Island in 1888.
Over the years, the farm transitioned into a vital part of the Colt Estate before finding its place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. In 1965, the State of Rhode Island recognized its significance and acquired the Colt Estate for use as a state park. Thanks to the passionate advocacy of the Bristol Historical Society, the farmstead was preserved, evolving into the cherished museum we know today.
Since its establishment in 1973, Coggeshall Farm Museum has been a beacon of education, offering a captivating window into the bygone era of 18th-century New England farm life. Come and immerse yourself in history, where each visit promises a journey of discovery and a deeper appreciation for our agricultural heritage.
Set on 48 acres of coastal farmland in Bristol, Rhode Island, Coggeshall Farm recreates the daily experience of tenant farmers on a salt marsh farm in the late 18th century. With a new, innovative partnership with Old Sturbridge Village, Coggeshall will expand and enhance the visitor experience through live interpretation, enriching events and educational programming, historic structures, heirloom plants and gardens, and heritage-breed animals.