Ready Set Write
Joy Farm is the historic summer home of the poet Edward Estlin (E.E.) Cummings. The original house and barn were built in the late 1700s, and the place has always served as a private residence. The current owners who acquired the place in 1975 have continued the trend of using it as a private residence. Since 2014, they have opened it a few days each summer to the public in partnership with the Madison Library and starting in September 2016, we are pleased to open the place up for writers to participate in a five-day residency opportunity. Because the premises is still used year round as a private residence by the owners, the Joy Farm Writer's Retreat offers just one residency each year. It is always in Autumn, so be sure and sign up early to ensure you are part of this unique offering.
The Joy Farm Writer's Retreat strives to strike a balance between guided instruction and activities, and unstructured time which affords ample time to write, ruminate, reflect, or simply enjoy the same peaceful New Hampshire solitude that has long been a balm to the soul of many a writer and artist.
In this residency section you will find all the information you are looking for. Our schedule depicts how a 'typical' residency goes, and under the accommodations tab, you will find all your questions answered about our rustic but comfortable sleeping arrangements. Finally, check out our gallery to see what treasures are to be found during the course of your stay.
If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to contact the director at: lizamattison@yahoo.com Expect a response in 1-2 days.
Because of its historical importance and secluded setting, smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on the grounds of the Writer’s Retreat.