The Samuel Smith Farmstead represents an outstanding example of a simple Connecticut colonial-era homestead located at, 82 Plants Dam Road, East Lyme, CT on land originally occupied by the Nehantic Indian Tribe. The house and barn currently sit on 17 acres of rural land which was part of the original 37.5-acre parcel purchased in 1702 by Samuel Smith and Thomas Bradford. The house, built in 1748 by John Johnson Sr, is being restored and maintained with accuracy to its beginning in the 18th century. The northern “ell” of the house was added in the early 19th century. 

The John Johnson House at the Samuel Smith Farmstead is a remarkably intact colonial house listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The property has also been designated by the Office of State Archaeology as an archaeological site with deposits from both the prehistoric and colonial periods.

Recent research has documented the involvement of John Johnson Jr and his son Reynolds in the local Militia and Coastal Guard during the American Revolution. The Farmstead is overseen by The Friends of Samuel Smith House and Property, Inc. which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The mission of The Friends of Samuel Smith House and Property, Inc. is to restore, maintain and preserve the house and property as a living museum of 18th and 19th century Connecticut farm life. The Farmstead is owned by the Town of East Lyme and managed by the Friends of Samuel Smith House and Property.

Initial funding for the purchase of the Samuel Smith Farmstead in 2013 was provided by the Town of East Lyme; the State Historic Preservation Office; and the Niantic Sportsmen’s Club. 

It takes donations, volunteer labor and many talents to support the Farmstead through The Friends of Samuel Smith House and Property, Inc. We invite you to join us in our mission as a Member or Volunteer.  

For membership information please visit our Volunteer page.

For information on becoming a member, visit our Become a Member page.