John Kline Homestead to dedicate replica of 19th century kitchen garden.

Photo by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford

Paul Roth shares 19th century style candy at the John Kline Homestead booth at the 2013 Annual Conference. A new 19th century kitchen garden at the historic home of Civil War-era Brethren elder John Kline will be dedicated with a Garden Party on Sept. 15 in Broadway, Va.

The John Kline Homestead in Broadway, Va., will host a “Garden Party” to dedicate its new kitchen garden on Sunday, Sept. 15. The site is the historic home of Elder John Kline, a Brethren leader and martyr for peace during the Civil War.

The Garden Party will include a brief service, shape-note singing, tours of the house, and refreshments. Harvey’s of Bridgewater will serve ice cream flavored with ingredients grown on the homestead property. Events start at 4 p.m. and are free and open to the public.

Kitchen gardens were critical to 19th-century households. They were a specialized form of cultivation that grew a variety of foods for the family table. The fencing and lay-out of the gardens were particularly distinct. The Kline Homestead has created a replica of these plots.

The John Kline Homestead endeavors to preserve Kline’s memory as a 19th-century Brethren minister who led the Linville Creek congregation in Broadway. Kline established a reputation for service to the church and community, commitment to peace, and anti-slavery views.

For more information contact Paul Roth at proth@bridgewater.edu or 540-896-5001.

Source: 8/8/2013 Newsline