Historic Andrew Peterson Farmstead Receives

Jeffris Family Foundation Grant

    The Carver County Historical Society is honored to receive a three year challenge grant from the Jeffris Family Foundation to fund the rehabilitation of the Andrew Peterson Farmhouse in Waconia, MN.

In order to receive the $250,000 offered by the Foundation, the CCHS will need to raise $500,000 over the next three years.  The funds may be raised in various ways including cash, donations of building materials, or professional skills needed on site.  If we fall short of the required $500,000 needed to received the $250,000 match, we receive nothing. All donations must note that the donation is designated for the Jeffris Foundation match.

The Historic Andrew Peterson Farmstead, located at 8060 Highway 5, Waconia, MN, is open by appointment and for special events May through October. Andrew Peterson was known for his horticulture work with apple trees, the location of the first Swedish Baptist Church, and for his historically significant diaries which were used as a primary source for Wilhelm Moberg’s Emigrant book series.  The Jeffris Family Foundation was established in 1979 by Bruce and Eleanor Jeffris, and their son Tom. The Foundation assists the development of historic sites for non-profit organizations in small towns and cities in the eight states of the Midwest.

If you are interested in donating or would like more information contact Wendy Petersen Biorn at 952-442-4234 or wbiorn@co.carver.mn.us.

Stay tuned, for more information about exciting fundraising events, programs, easy ways to donate, and so much more!