Justin S. Morrill (1810-1898)
served in both the U.S. House and Senate for nearly forty-four
years in the 19th Century. Among other accomplishments, he was
responsible for sponsoring the 1862 and 1890 Land-Grants Acts
that gave the American working class and minorities the opportunity
to pursue higher education. Morrill's Gothic Revival house, which
he also designed, still stands in Strafford and is open to the
public. This state historic site features seventeen rooms filled
with original furniture and artifacts, as well as outbuildings
and grounds that can be explored. The Homestead is also the site
of many annual events, such as the 19th Century Croquet Tournament
that is traditionally held in July. See the Homestead
Website for information on this and other events.
The Justin Smith Morrill Homestead is located in
Strafford Village, just two miles off Route 132 on the Justin
Smith Morrill Highway. The Homestead is open Memorial Day to Columbus
Day, Wednesday through Sunday, 11-5 and offers tours on the hour.
The price of admission is $2. The Homestead can be reached by
calling 802-828-3051. |
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