John Brown Farm State Historic Site

John Brown Farm State Historic Site High in New York State’s Adirondack Mountains is the home and grave of abolitionist John Brown.

Visitors can tour the cabin, explore the hiking trails on the property, and take in the picturesque views of the surrounding Adirondack High Peaks. Located in Lake Placid, NY, John Brown Farm State Historic Site is the home and grave of abolitionist John Brown. Many Americans know the song "John Brown's body lies a-mouldering in the grave," but most do not associate the words with this simple farm at North Elba, New York. On the night of October 16, 1859, Brown and his followers assaulted the U.S. Arsenal at Harper's Ferry, planning to use the captured arms in an extensive campaign for the liberation of the slaves in the South. Brown was captured on October 18, 1859, imprisoned at Charlestown, Virginia, tried by the Commonwealth of Virginia, and hanged on December 2, 1859. His body was returned to North Elba and was buried in front of his home on December 8, 1859. The remains of several of Brown's followers, who fought and died at Harper's Ferry, were moved to this small graveyard in 1899.

Yesterday’s Hike on Goodman Mountain, named for American Civil Rights Activist Andrew Goodman, 1943-1964
09/12/2026

Yesterday’s Hike on Goodman Mountain, named for American Civil Rights Activist Andrew Goodman, 1943-1964

This Sunday, September 13 is Girl Scouts Love State Parks Day at John Brown Farm: 10am-4pm, If you are or were a Scout,...
09/10/2026

This Sunday, September 13 is Girl Scouts Love State Parks Day at John Brown Farm: 10am-4pm, If you are or were a Scout, come get in on our Natural History Scavenger Hunts. Actually if you’re just interested in Natural History, you may participate. Scouts and family members are also invited to attend an Exploring our Senses session at 11am, 1pm or 2 pm. Come earn an Explorer Club badge!

09/03/2026

September 11, 2026 at 10:30 am: Hike Goodman Mountain

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1128500819509197&set=a.244623124563642&type=3
09/01/2026

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1128500819509197&set=a.244623124563642&type=3

Meet Gracie — the one-of-a-kind Border Collie known as the “Bark Ranger”

At Glacier National Park, Gracie has a very important (and very cool) job. She keeps both wildlife and visitors safe by making sure they keep a respectful distance from each other.

Working alongside Ranger Mark, Gracie is often stationed at Logan Pass, where her main task is to keep bighorn sheep out of the busy parking lot.

In one recent moment, a “bachelor group” of five rams lingered just outside the east wall—and Gracie stayed on duty for nearly two hours, calmly holding her ground to make sure they didn’t wander in.

Her secret? Classic Border Collie skills. She starts with her famous “collie stare,” simply applying quiet pressure with her presence.

If that’s not enough, she slowly approaches on a long leash, gently guiding the animals away—always under Ranger Mark’s direction. The goal is to keep wildlife at least 25 yards from people (and even farther for predators like bears and wolves).

But her work doesn’t stop there. Gracie also helps guide deer away from bike trails and developed areas, especially in winter—reducing the chances of dangerous encounters with mountain lions that may follow.

Ranger Mark describes one encounter perfectly: the team paused, the animals paused, and with a slow, steady approach, the deer eventually moved safely back into the forest. Mission accomplished—and yes, Gracie always earns a well-deserved reward when she returns.

When she’s not “herding” wildlife, she’s helping visitors spot it from a safe distance and learn how to coexist responsibly.

Smart, patient, and dedicated—Gracie is proof that sometimes the best park ranger has four legs and a whole lot of heart. 🐾🌲

Scenes from past Girl Scouts Love NYS Parks Day at John Brown Farm. This September 13 all are welcome to join us for a c...
08/31/2026

Scenes from past Girl Scouts Love NYS Parks Day at John Brown Farm. This September 13 all are welcome to join us for a couple of fun Natural History activities! ~Get in touch for details~

John Brown Farm will have activities for Girl Scouts, friends, and families on Sunday, September 13! Come Explore Natura...
08/30/2026

John Brown Farm will have activities for Girl Scouts, friends, and families on Sunday, September 13! Come Explore Natural History and Engage Your Senses with us! Please get in touch for more info.

The countdown is on! Girl Scouts Love State Parks returns on the weekends of September 12-13 and September 19-20. Grab your family, hit the trails, and take home an exclusive patch to remember the adventure. Contact your local council for a list of participating parks in your area!

Our Fall Hike Series will kick off with a walk up Goodman Mtn On Friday, September 11, at 10:30 AM! Please get in touch ...
08/24/2026

Our Fall Hike Series will kick off with a walk up Goodman Mtn On Friday, September 11, at 10:30 AM! Please get in touch if you are interested.

This Friday! Please join us and share—
08/19/2026

This Friday! Please join us and share—

Address

115 John Brown Road
Lake Placid, NY
12946

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