Ridge Hill Farms: William Emerson Baker’s Beautiful and Bizarre Estate

The Greatest Show on Ridge Hill

Bill Bruin's Funeral,  Natick Historical Society Photo Collection. Watercolor by unidentified artist, [circa 1874]

Trudy Reisner, Natick Historical Society Researcher

Natick Historical Society

Have you ever visited the Natick Historical Society Museum and seen the remarkable glass pig artifact that belonged to William Emerson Baker? Although Baker’s extravagant estate, Ridge Hill Farms, was located in Wellesley, we’re fortunate to have several related artifacts in our collection—including this one-of-a-kind glass pig, which is currently on display in our Cabinet of Curiosities.

Baker gave the pig to his wife, Charlotte Augusta Farnsworth, in September 1885 to celebrate their 15th (crystal) wedding anniversary—though the pig appears to be made of glass rather than crystal. It also served as an invitation to their whimsical “Pork and Bean Reception.” The pig was filled with baked beans, symbolizing New England hospitality, and decorated with blue ribbons tied around its curling tail, from which directions to the party dangled.

Discover the Emerson-Baker Estate: A Gilded Age Marvel in Natick’s Backyard

Step into the world of William Emerson Baker, an eccentric inventor, entrepreneur, and social reformer who turned Ridge Hill Farms into a spectacular estate blending scientific ideals with whimsical design. From underground caverns to glass pig invitations, Baker’s estate was a serious experiment in social progress and a playful spectacle that drew thousands of visitors in the 1870s. Explore this fascinating chapter of Natick’s history through rare artifacts, documents, maps, and photos from the Natick Historical Society’s collection.

With gratitude to Trudy Reisner, Natick Historical Society Volunteer Researcher, for her enthusiasm and dedication to uncovering and preserving Natick’s story.

Curious to learn more?

Explore the full story in the Natick Report: [Click here to read the full article.]