The Boyhood Home & Farm

Vegetable garden and barns at Boyhood Farm.
Vegetable garden and barn at Boyhood Farm.

National Park Service

History of the Boyhood Farm

The Boyhood Farm, once owned by Earl Carter, Jimmy Carter's father, has a rich history dating back to 1928 when it came under the Carters' ownership. For over two decades, Earl Carter cultivated a variety of crops, including corn, cotton, peanuts, and sugar cane, alongside maintaining a large family garden. Young Jimmy Carter called this place home from the age of four until he left for college, and it holds some of his earliest and most cherished memories.

A Memorable Start

One of Jimmy Carter's earliest and most vivid recollections revolves around the day they moved into their new home. "The front door was locked when we got there, and daddy realized that he had forgotten the key. He tried to raise one of the windows that opened onto the front porch, but a wooden bar on the inside let it come up only about six inches. So he slid me through the crack and I came around to unlock the door from the inside. The approval of my father for my first useful act has always been one of my most vivid memories." - Jimmy Carter, An Hour Before Daylight

A Step Back in Time

In the year 2000, the Boyhood Farm became an integral part of a park. The farm underwent a restoration process to recreate its appearance as it was before electricity was installed in 1938. Visitors are encouraged to take a leisurely stroll along the walking path, with informative wayside exhibits at various points to provide insight into the history and significance of the farm. For a more immersive experience, there are audio stations where you can hear Jimmy Carter himself sharing his childhood stories.

Farm Life Today

The Boyhood Farm continues to thrive with the same agricultural spirit. The farm is home to honeybees, goats, chickens, mules, and farm cats, all actively contributing to the authentic farm atmosphere. Crops are still grown periodically throughout the year, which include sugarcane, cotton, corn, tomatoes, and, of course, peanuts, a crop closely associated with the Carters. Visitors can witness firsthand the timeless charm of farm life and the enduring connection to Jimmy Carter's roots.

 

General Information

 

Area Highlights

 

Plan Your Visit

Last updated: October 20, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

300 North Bond Street
Plains, GA 31780

Phone:

(229) 824 - 4104
The visitor information desk is staffed from 9 am until 5 pm daily, except for New Year's Day (January 1), Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day (December 25).

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