King Farm Farmstead: A Legacy of Rockville's Agrarian Past

Nestled along Frederick Road, the King Farm Farmstead stands as a testament to Rockville's rich agricultural heritage. Established in the early 19th century, this historic site has witnessed significant transformations, reflecting the evolution of the region over two centuries.

Early Beginnings

In 1822, Andrew Graff acquired 122 acres along Frederick Road, where his family had lived since 1814. The Graff family cultivated this land for over a century, contributing to the area's agricultural development. A description from 1877 highlights the farm's advantageous location: "The property has a frontage of about a third of a mile on the Frederick Road ... in full view of the Metropolitan Branch of the B&O RR and is located convenient to three railroad stations, the county seat, churches [and] schools."

The King Era

In 1924, W. Lawson King purchased the farm, renaming it "Irvington Farm." Under the King family's stewardship, the farm expanded its operations, becoming the largest dairy farm in Montgomery County with 450 registered Holstein cows. The double dairy barn was central to their operations, and innovations like the hay drying shed were introduced to enhance efficiency and safety. The hay drying shed, a simple pole barn equipped with a gas furnace, was crucial in reducing drying time for fresh hay and preventing hay fires caused by excessive moisture.

Transition and Preservation

As urban development encroached, much of the original farmland was sold and developed. However, the core of the farmstead, comprising eight buildings on seven acres, was preserved. In 2006, the King Farm Farmstead was designated as a historic district, ensuring the protection of its remaining structures.

Recent Developments

In recent years, efforts have been underway to rehabilitate and repurpose the farmstead. The City of Rockville has initiated projects to restore the structural integrity of the buildings, including the installation of modern utilities to support future uses. Community engagement has been a cornerstone of these efforts, with task forces and public discussions exploring viable and sustainable uses for the historic site.

A Living Legacy

Today, the King Farm Farmstead serves as a tangible link to Rockville's agrarian roots. Its preservation offers residents and visitors a glimpse into the region's agricultural past, while ongoing rehabilitation efforts aim to integrate the site into the community's cultural and recreational landscape.

As Rockville continues to grow and evolve, the King Farm Farmstead stands as a reminder of the city's rich history and the enduring value of preserving its heritage.