For anyone curious about what one of the oldest homes in Kent looks like on the inside, make plans to tour the Neely-Soames Historic Homestead between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17.
The homestead is along the Green River Trail at 5311 S. 237th Pl., just north of the Russell Road athletic complex. Representatives from the King County Master Gardeners, whose members and friends maintain the heritage gardens and grounds, and Kent Parks, Recreation & Community Services will be on hand for guided tours.
David Neely and his family settled in the Kent valley in 1854 and moved their home to its current location in 1885, according to a city of Kent media release. Neely’s daughter Ruby was born in the house in 1895, and after she married Harry Soames, the couple lived there until her death in 1986. The bed she was born in, hand-carved by her father, is on display at the home.
The Neely-Soames Homestead was listed on the State Register of Historic Homes in 1977. It underwent significant renovations in 1999 and 2000, supported by the Washington State Historical Society, King County and the city of Kent.
Eight Eagle Scout projects added an informational kiosk, a grape arbor with benches, a picket fence, a trellis for hops, picnic tables and historic photographs.
The home can be rented for meetings and small events. The gardens are open to the public year-round, with all flowers and vegetables clearly marked.
For more information about the open house or to receive a self-guided walking tour of the gardens, call 253-856-5110.
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