Spanning 100 acres, Hilarie Burton and Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s Dutchess County farm blends rustic charm with modern comforts.
Known for their roles in One Tree Hill and The Walking Dead respectively, the couple left Los Angeles in 2018 to embrace a simpler, hands-on lifestyle in upstate New York.
Their property, named Mischief Farm, features a mix of woodlands, open fields, and a farmhouse equipped for their growing family and extensive menagerie of animals.
A Picturesque Retreat in Rhinebeck
The farm includes a spacious farmhouse with a rustic cabin-style kitchen, open living areas, and handcrafted elements that reflect the couple’s commitment to sustainability.
Surrounded by woodlands, the estate offers privacy and tranquility, making it a serene retreat.
Winding paths connect the main house to various outbuildings, including a workshop room where Burton sews protective face masks.
The expansive grounds provide ample space for livestock, gardens, and personal projects.
The farm’s name, inspired by hand-carved pet headstones found during their first visit, adds a touch of history and nostalgia.
Burton and Morgan’s memoir, The Rural Diaries, captures the essence of life at Mischief Farm, recounting stories of chopping wood, building chicken coops, and making dandelion wine.
A Diverse Menagerie of Animals
Mischief Farm is home to an eclectic mix of animals, including Highland cattle, miniature donkeys, alpacas, chickens, ducks, and several dogs.
Among the most famous residents are Jack the donkey and Diane the emu, a bonded pair rescued from South Carolina.
Their unique friendship drew widespread attention, highlighting the couple’s passion for animal welfare.
Jeffrey Dean Morgan often shares glimpses of farm life on social media, showing moments of feeding the animals, maintaining enclosures, and working on various projects around the property.
His love for animals is evident in the care and attention given to each resident of the farm.
Restoring and Preserving History
Since moving to Rhinebeck, Burton, and Morgan have led efforts to restore and preserve local landmarks.
Their ongoing renovations at Astor Services, a historic treatment center for children, reflect a deep commitment to the community.
The couple has hosted fundraisers to support these renovations, blending their public influence with a cause close to their hearts.
Nestled in history, the farm has undergone significant updates, balancing modern amenities with historical elements.
The couple’s hands-on approach is evident in the meticulous upkeep of the property, from repairing fences to cultivating vegetable gardens.
A Hub for Community and Tradition
Mischief Farm serves as a hub for local gatherings and community involvement.
Burton and Morgan co-own Samuel’s Sweet Shop in Rhinebeck with actor Paul Rudd, transforming it into a beloved local spot.
Their frequent visits to nearby stores, like Williams Lumber and the Rhinebeck Department Store, highlight their dedication to supporting local businesses.
Burton’s admiration for the community’s preservation efforts inspired her to adopt similar practices on their farm.
Her interactions with local artisans and farmers have influenced the couple’s approach to maintaining Mischief Farm as a sustainable and community-oriented estate.
Hilarie Burton’s Journey from Acting to Farm Life
Hilarie Burton first captivated audiences as Peyton Sawyer on One Tree Hill, a role that showcased her emotional depth and relatability.
Her portrayal of the rebellious yet vulnerable character earned her a dedicated fan base.
Following her success on One Tree Hill, Burton expanded her acting repertoire with roles in White Collar as Sara Ellis and guest appearances on Grey’s Anatomy and Lethal Weapon.
Beyond acting, Burton’s passion for storytelling led her to author The Rural Diaries, a memoir that chronicles her transition from Hollywood to farm life.
The book blends personal anecdotes with reflections on motherhood, marriage, and the challenges of maintaining a farm.
Her writing highlights her authenticity and commitment to living a meaningful life away from the spotlight.
Burton’s contributions to the entertainment industry are complemented by her philanthropic efforts in Rhinebeck.
Her involvement in local initiatives, such as fundraising for Astor Services for Children & Families, reflects her desire to build a lasting legacy both on and off-screen.
Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s Rise to Television and Film Success
Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s career reached new heights with his portrayal of Negan on The Walking Dead.
His charismatic yet menacing performance earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his place as a leading figure in television.
Prior to The Walking Dead, Morgan delivered memorable roles as John Winchester on Supernatural and Denny Duquette on Grey’s Anatomy.
His versatility extended to the big screen with performances in Watchmen, where he played the complex character of The Comedian.
Morgan’s affinity for character-driven stories led to the creation of the AMC show Friday Night In with The Morgans.
Filmed at their Dutchess County farm, the show offered fans a candid look at Morgan’s life away from acting, featuring unscripted conversations with friends and fellow actors.
His passion for animal welfare is evident at Mischief Farm, where he takes an active role in caring for their diverse menagerie.
A Life Beyond the Spotlight
Relocating from Los Angeles to Rhinebeck marked a significant shift for Burton and Morgan, who traded Hollywood glamour for a more grounded existence.
Their AMC show, Friday Night In with The Morgans, filmed directly from their home, offers fans an intimate look at their daily routines — from feeding chickens to chopping firewood.
The farmhouse’s interiors reflect their love for simple living, featuring reclaimed wood, earthy tones, and practical furnishings.
Large windows offer sweeping views of the surrounding fields and woodlands, blending indoor comfort with outdoor beauty.
Mischief Farm stands not only as a testament to their love for each other but also to their commitment to a life well-lived, far from the glitz of Hollywood.
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