Donate

Donate to Save the House!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bradford-Berry House?
The Bradford-Berry House—originally known as Hazel Patch—is one of Hendersonville’s oldest surviving historic homes, built in the 1790s. The property traces back to William Bradford, a Revolutionary War patriot who was granted 1,000 acres in what was then western North Carolina.
Architecturally, Hazel Patch is a beautiful, early example of a Federal-era, two-story brick design, reminiscent of the stately homes of Colonial Williamsburg. It also features a full cellar constructed of locally quarried limestone, a remarkable detail that reflects the craftsmanship and materials of the era.
The Bradford family story begins with William Bradford, a Revolutionary War patriot whose land grant and early settlement history are closely tied to the origins of this property and the community around it.
The Berry family reflects later stewardship of Hazel Patch. In 1887, Horatio Berry purchased the home for his daughter, Sara Crosby Berry—a key moment in the property’s history and how it came to carry the Berry name over time.
The Berry name also has a broader regional connection beyond Hendersonville. It’s associated with Col. Harry S. Berry, tied to the early development of the Nashville airport—often referenced in the name “Berry Field Nashville,” commonly cited as the origin of BNA.
Because this is bigger than saving a house—it’s about preserving a once-in-a-generation gift: the historic homeand the 13.9 acres around it in the heart of Hendersonville.
Hazel Patch is historically significant, architecturally rare, and deeply tied to our earliest chapters of local history. Just as important, the land itself represents a rare opportunity to protect greenspace in the city center—a lasting investment in our community’s character, beauty, and balance between growth and green.
And the experience of the place matters too: the once cedar lined driveway from Gallatin Pike created an awe-inspiring approach to Hazel Patch, giving visitors a powerful sense that they’re entering somewhere truly special—something worth protecting for generations.
You can help in a few meaningful ways:
  • Donate (one-time or recurring)
  • Volunteer (events, cleanup days, outreach, committees)
  • Share and spread the word (share posts/videos and invite neighbors to follow)
  • Offer expertise (historic preservation, research, grants, fundraising, legal, construction, landscaping, community programming)

Right now, visiting is typically limited and based on scheduled opportunities (special events, volunteer days, or arranged access). As preservation planning continues and the site is stabilized for safety, the goal is to expand access so more residents can experience Hazel Patch and the surrounding grounds.

The Berry name has a regional connection beyond Hendersonville. BNA’s call letters are widely cited as standing for “Berry Field Nashville,” and Berry Field was named in honor of Colonel Harry S. Berry, associated with the WPA-era development of the airport. That connection is part of why the Berry name is historically significant well beyond this single property.

We welcome it. If you have photos, documents, stories, or family memories connected to Hazel Patch or the Bradford/Berry history, please share them through our community submission form (or message the Preservation Society through the page). Community contributions help build a stronger historical record and strengthen preservation efforts.

Donations support mission-focused work such as:
  • Preservation planning and stabilization
  • Safety and site upkeep (basic maintenance, securing the property, insurance)
  • Historic research and documentation
  • Professional assessments (structural, preservation, environmental as needed)
  • Public education and outreach
    We’ll continue providing updates so supporters can see how contributions are being used and what progress is being made.

Yes. The Bradford-Berry House Preservation Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and contributions are generally tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Donations support the Society’s mission to protect and preserve Hazel Patch and the surrounding grounds for long-term public benefit.

Secret Link