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Last Farm Standing: The Survival of the Littell-Lord Farmstead

In the dense suburbs of Union County, New Jersey, finding an open field is rare. Finding an 18-acre farm that dates back to the French and Indian War is a miracle.

This is the Littell-Lord Farmstead in Berkeley Heights. As the last surviving farm in the township, it serves as the only physical link to the community’s agrarian past. It survived the Revolutionary War, the arrival of the railroad, and the rapid suburbanization of the 20th century.

While it has faced periods of neglect, this site remains a vital time capsule, showcasing how New Jersey evolved from a colony of farmers to a state of commuters.

Phase 1: The Revolutionary Farm (c. 1760)

The story begins with Andrew Littell, a farmer and weaver who acquired the land in the mid-1700s. Around 1760, he built the original section of the house.

• The Architecture: It was a modest, three-room structure with a sleeping loft. Life centered around a massive corner fireplace in the “keeping room” and a lean-to kitchen with an open hearth.
• The War: Andrew lived here with his wife Mary and seven children. Their son, Ephraim Littell, left this very farm in May 1778 to join the Continental Army, serving in the 2nd Regiment of Light Dragoons.

The Spring House: One of the most charming features on the property is the stone and brick spring house. Built over a natural spring, it acted as the colonial version of a refrigerator, keeping dairy and perishables cool in the running water.

Phase 2: The Commuter Estate (1867)

In the mid-19th century, the farm underwent a dramatic personality change. It was purchased in 1867 by Mary Ann Townsend Lord and her husband, Charles Wait Lord.

Charles was not just a farmer; he was a commission merchant in New York City.

• The First Commuters: Utilizing the newly established rail lines, Charles became one of the area’s first commuters, traveling daily from the “country” of New Jersey to the city.
• The Renovation: To reflect their status, the Lords expanded the farmhouse. They added a Victorian parlor, a “Grandmother House” (built in the Carpenter Gothic style for relatives), and a summer kitchen.

The Lords eventually moved to Europe, leaving the property to tenant farmers, but the estate remained in the family until the mid-20th century.

Phase 3: The Fight for Preservation

By the 1970s, the farm was owned by Elizabeth Wemett (a Lord descendant). Upon her passing, the 18-acre tract—the last farm in town—was slated to be subdivided into 31 new houses.

Recognizing that their history was about to be bulldozed, the community rallied. The township applied for Green Acres funding and purchased the property in 1975.

• The Volunteer Army: For decades, the Historical Society of Berkeley Heights has acted as the steward of the property. They stabilized the buildings, created a museum, and fought to keep the history alive.

The Farmstead Today

Preservation is a constant battle. In recent years, the farmhouse has required significant structural restoration. The Township of Berkeley Heights, utilizing historic preservation grants, has been actively working to stabilize the timber frame, restore the roof, and preserve the “Grandmother House.”

While it is no longer a daily working farm, the grounds remain a peaceful escape and a reminder of the layers of history beneath our feet.

If You Visit

• Location: 31 Horseshoe Road, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922.
• Access: The grounds are generally open to the public for walking and enjoying the historic landscape.
• Tours: Access to the interior of the farmhouse and outbuildings is limited due to ongoing restoration work. The Historical Society typically hosts open houses and special events—check their schedule before planning a tour.

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For More Information

The Historical Society of Berkeley Heights (www.littell-lord.org)