Step back in time...

This 40-acre farmstead, called Schumacher Farm Park, was gifted to the Dane County Parks Commission in 1978 by Marcella Schumacher Pendall, the only child of Henry Schumacher. The original farmhouse and barn built by Henry Schumacher in 1908 are accompanied by outbuildings of the same era, donated to the park from local farms. The property features trails through a 10-acre restored prairie that sits on a hilltop with a beautiful view of Waunakee and even a glimpse of the State Capitol Building. Our grounds are open year-round.

In the warmer months, volunteers tend the chickens, the heirloom garden, and the small orchard. The park hosts workshops and public events, like our beloved Heritage Fest and Halloween at the Farm. Check our Calendar for our full schedule of events.

The park represents a view into what life was like during the 1920s-1930s and offers a representation of Dane County's heritage through preservation, restoration, education and nature conservation.

The Friends of Schumacher Farm manages programming for Schumacher Farm Park. Friends members are our most important assets! Learn more about membership or consider making a donation to keep this rural heritage alive in our community.

Our Programs

Natural Areas Management

The Schumacher Prairie restoration was initiated in the 1980s with the foresight of Marcella Pendall Schumacher and the knowledge and assistance of Wayne Pauley, Dane County Park Naturalist at the time. Volunteers help manage the natural areas at Schumacher Farm Park year-round.

Heirloom Garden

Schumacher Farm Park's Heirloom garden is planted with varieties typical of those planted in a farm garden of the 1920s and 1930s.

Events & Workshops

As part of our mission to offer engaging opportunities for the surrounding community to experience the park, we host a variety of events and workshops throughout the year. From Heritage Fest, to line dance lessons, to maple sap workshops - we offer plenty of fun for kids, adults, and families.

Historical Preservation

Marcella Schumacher's mission was to offer her family's farmstead as a conservancy and park that showcased Dane County's rural history. We do this through our historical committee, preservation projects, and educational events that allow a glimpse into farm life of days gone by.