Lefferts Historic House is a working piece of pre-Revolutionary Brooklyn sitting in the middle of Prospect Park, and its garden is planted to reflect what a Flatbush farm household actually grew. Volunteering in that yard is unusually satisfying: it's gardening with a historical brief, in a walled, shaded pocket of the park most joggers never notice. If you like the idea of dirt under your nails and a bit of Brooklyn history in the same morning, this is the pick.
What to expect
Meet at Lefferts Historic House near the park's Flatbush Avenue side, check in and take gloves and hand tools. The session covers weeding, bed renewal and planting in the house's garden, with staff explaining what's planted and why before you start pulling anything. Expect kneeling, hand work and a compact, shaded site rather than open lawn.
Good to know
- B, Q or S to Prospect Park puts you closest to the Flatbush Avenue side of the park
- Gloves and hand tools are provided; a kneeling pad is a nice extra to bring
- Wear clothes and shoes you don't mind getting soil on
- The site is compact and largely level, with shade from mature trees
- Bring water — the work is in a garden rather than near concessions
- Adjacent to the carousel and zoo, which makes it easy to build a family day around
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Common questions
What is Lefferts Historic House?
An 18th-century Dutch Colonial farmhouse relocated into Prospect Park from Flatbush Avenue, now interpreted as a historic house site.
Do I need gardening experience?
No. Staff explain the plantings and demonstrate the tasks before volunteers get to work.
Are tools provided?
Yes — gloves and hand tools are supplied on site.
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