Founded in 1813, the São Francisco Farm is the oldest in São José do Barreiro. Once one of the major slave-owning estates in the coffee industry, today it stands as a testament to the heyday of São Paulo ’s coffee cycle. It has been in the Ferreira Leite family for decades and currently welcomes guests interested in spending time at the historic estate.
Built in the 19th century, it was inaugurated 34 years after the arrival of the first coffee seedlings in Brazil, which came directly from French Guiana.
Located in the Paraíba Valley, the farm was strategically situated between the Bocaina and Mantiqueira mountain ranges. Taking advantage of this, it prospered through coffee production, supplying the Rio de Janeiro region.
However, like other farms, with the coffee crisis, it eventually shifted to livestock farming and began producing milk and engaging in other rural activities. This helped maintain the property, but did not spare it from suffering the loss of its economic prominence over the years.
In 1983, the owners, Walton and Eliana, carried out renovations on the farm. The structures, the furniture, and even some documents from that era have been preserved. On the other hand, the building had to undergo transformations to accommodate guests and serve as a residence once again.
The Armando Vianna Museum
Much of the preserved material was combined with donations from the public and became the Memory Room, located inside the farm’s main house. It tells the story of São Francisco and also preserves the memory of the Historic Valley. In addition to documenting the coffee cycle and the transformations the region has undergone over time.
With a collection of over 50 cataloged works and objects, the small historical museum opened in 1986.
The name pays tribute to Armando Vianna, a Rio de Janeiroartist and friend of the family. This demonstrates that the museum is much more than just a historical collection; it is also a recognition of Black art and culture.
Tours are conducted in small groups, whether for guests or visitors, and are available by appointment. The space offers a guided tour, where the owners share the history while showcasing the local collection.
Private Natural Heritage Reserve
In addition to preserving the farm’s history, the owners are also making an effort to transform part of the São Francisco area into a private reserve. Their primary concern is local biodiversity and environmental education.
There are other nature reserves on rural properties in the city, but in this specific case, the primary goal is the preservation of the local Atlantic Forest, which borders the Serra da BocainaNational Park.
How to visit the São Francisco Farm
The farm offers various types of visits; in addition to traditional lodging, it features guided tours and rural tourism activities. The property currently has 6 rooms, and the experience includes spending time with the owners and enjoying hearty cuisine.
You can go horseback riding around the farm and end the tour at the waterfall, the wells, or the farm’s reservoir . You can also hike or trek on Morro dos Franceses, which offers a simultaneous view of the Mantiqueira and Bocaina mountain ranges.