Eric Dreibelbis, a volunteer at the 2015 Historic Dreibelbis Farm Festival and a ninth generation member of the Dreibelbis family, called the preservation of the property “a massive philanthropic act” on the part of the Dreibelbis Farm Historical Society, a registered non-profit organization.
Visitors at the Virginville site during the Aug. 22 event stepped back in time and enjoyed the carefully preserved farm, as well as demonstrations and exhibits of period crafts, cooking, and other activities true to the history of the 240-year old homestead. The Lenni-Lenape Indian display paid homage to the Native Americans who lived in the area before the original log home was built during the Revolutionary war. A hayride through the fields and forest around the property was a highlight for all ages.
The farmhouse at the Dreibelbis farm has been deemed the “jewel” of the property. Visitors donned shoe covers to enter the home and were cautioned against touching most items inside. Each room was preserved as closely as possible to how the home was used by the Dreibelbis family in previous decades. Tourists were amazed by the original wallpaper and carpets that provide a background for the antique furniture in each room. The docents leading the tour groups shared details and stories to make the farmhouse come to life for their visitors.
Co-founder of the Dreibelbis Farm Historical Society, Janine Dreibelbis, confirmed her appreciation that the weather for the event was “perfect”. Co-founder, Mark Dreibelbis, another ninth generation member of the family, noted that attendance was well over 300 guests for the 2015 festival. Mark Dreibelbis described how the number of vendors and exhibitors grew this year and said, “We’ve increased to include the whole farm.”
As it was stated on the program for the 2015 Historic Dreibelbis Farm Festival, the farm is considered “perhaps one of the best intact reminders of rural life in Berks County.”
For more information about donating to the non-profit organization, farm events, or volunteer opportunities, contact Mark Dreibelbis, President of the Dreibelbis Farm Historical Society, at 610-488-7896, or find the farm on Facebook by searching for “Historic Dreibelbis Farm.”
