Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run is located in McLean, Virginia, across the street from the headquarters of the Central Intelligence Agency. Turkey Run is the only privately run park in the US National Park Service. A privately funded foundation pays for all activities on the farm, while the land is owned by NPS.

The mission of Turkey Run is to recreate the life of 1771 tenant farmers. The vast majority of Virginians in 1771 were tenant farmers, who lived by growing tobacco to pay their rent, and growing food to eat. By contrast, Colonial Williamsburg demonstrates the life of the small upper crust - merchants and landowners.

Turkey Run is staffed by a small paid professional staff, supplemented by volunteers (mostly pre-teen and teenagers) who demonstrate 1771 farm life, including field work, crafts, cooking, and other special activities. Staff (including volunteers) use "first person" to demonstrate living history. The highlight of the year is the Market Fair, held the third weekends of May, July, and October.

The farm is open to visitors (including school groups) Wed-Sun from April 1st to mid-December. A small admission charge applies.

External links

• Turkey Run website

United States National Park Service | History of Virginia | Living museums | Museums in Virginia | Open air museums | Landmarks in Virginia | Fairfax County, Virginia