“A farm, in the middle of a village?” That might be your first thought standing here at Bredekærgård. Bredekærgård is not just any farm. It is a vibrant hub in Ishøj. It focuses on nature and community.
Let me tell you a bit about Bredekærgård’s history. Its roots go way back to 1624. King Christian IV used the area for hunting. Bredekærgård was part of the royal hunting grounds until the mid-1700s.
In 1787, Christen Hansen was the farmer here. He was a tenant farmer married to Maren Pedersdatter. The story of Christen and his family is now an activity here. You can experience it when you visit Bredekærgård.
Bredekærgård remained privately owned until 1974. Then, the Ministry of Environment took over. Ishøj Municipality acquired Bredekærgård in 1975. Since then, it has been home to many activities.
In the late 1980s, the farm was renovated. It operated as an active farm for many years. A resident farmer lived here. In 2012, Ishøj Municipality ended the farmer’s residency. This also affected the animals on the farm.
Today, there is an animal farm here. You can see various animals. Ishøj Local Historical Archive is also located here. You can also visit the exhibition about the Prince of Ishøj. The Ishøj Nature Centre has also moved here. This is a delight for the town’s youngest residents.
In 2012, the Ishøj City Council adopted a new vision for Bredekærgård. They are still working towards this vision. Bredekærgård and Tranegilde should be a playground for children and adults. This involves preserving and developing the valuable historical environment. It means sharing Ishøj Municipality’s history, including immigration. It includes our shared roots in agriculture.
Local historical activities are developed here. These are done in cooperation with the local historical society. The farm sets the stage for cultural activities with local associations. Outdoor spaces inspire outdoor activities. They encourage children and young people to use nature.
When you visit Bredekærgård, you will find several things. There is a petting zoo with rabbits, chickens, goats, sheep and geese. It is open every day. There are also three campfire sites. One is covered. A small equipment bank lets you borrow equipment. You can borrow balls and outdoor games.
The Animal Base and History Base offer self-guided activities. These provide learning experiences. There are children’s gardens. Institutions and school classes can grow vegetables. The Prince of Ishøj exhibition displays an Iron Age prince. He was found in Ishøj.
Near Bredekærgård, you can visit Ishøj Animal Park. Here, you can see sheep, goats and Scottish Highland cattle. The Ishøj Theatre is also nearby. You can also access the Pilgrim Route and the Clover Path.
Bredekærgård is a gathering place for Ishøj residents. It focuses on sharing knowledge. The farm hosts many events. These include lectures, exhibitions, nature programs and children’s days.
Ishøj Municipality runs Bredekærgård today. They receive help from volunteer associations. Ishøj Nature Centre, Ishøj Archive and Kroppedal Museum are also part of the farm.
You are welcome to explore the farm on your own. Try the self-guided activities. Learn something new. Be curious. Use the signs. Go exploring. Hopefully, you will be inspired to explore Tranegilde a little more. Take a guided interactive tour of the village. Use your mobile phone and QR codes.
Keep in mind that you cannot buy food at Bredekærgård. However, you can always make coffee in the equipment bank’s small kitchen. Enjoy your own packed lunch. Everyone is welcome to use the picnic tables. If it rains, there is a nice campfire hut to eat in. The toilets are always available.
So, as you leave Bredekærgård today, remember its long history. Think about its role in the community. Appreciate its dedication to nature and education. It is a unique place where history comes alive. It is a place where everyone can connect with nature.