Kennedy Farm

Kennedy Farm is a two-story farmhouse with stone, brick, and log construction located in Sharpsburg, Washington County along Chestnut Grove Road. The building displays typical rural architecture of the 1800s with a restored main house and surrounding farm structures on its grounds.

In 1859, abolitionist John Brown used the farmhouse as headquarters while planning his attack on the Harpers Ferry federal arsenal. The property served as a critical base for organizing one of the most significant anti-slavery actions of the pre-Civil War era.

The Black Elks organization purchased the property in 1950 and transformed it into their National Shrine, hosting community gatherings in the space. The rooms reflect how this group used the farmhouse as a gathering place for their meetings and celebrations.

The site offers guided tours with educational materials about its historical importance and role in American history. Free parking is available on the grounds, making it easy to spend time exploring the farmhouse and surrounding buildings.

More than 20 men gathered here and hid during the day while working at night to stockpile weapons for their planned action. This secretive pattern of activity on isolated farmland allowed them to keep their mission hidden from authorities.

Location: Maryland

Website: http://johnbrown.org

GPS coordinates: 39.37970,-77.71560

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:05