Our History

Situated in the heart of Bonney Lake, the Kelley Farm has held its historical significance since 1864, when William Barton Kelley first laid claim to its expansive grounds. The year 1907 marked a turning point for the Kelley Farm house, transforming it into a romantic haven as it received a new purpose as a wedding gift. Today, that romance endures, offering an intimate backdrop for contemporary weddings. The Corliss family, driven by a profound sense of pride, has meticulously upheld and revitalized this historical treasure, allowing its innate beauty to withstand the test of time.

Functioning as a historical landmark, the Scott Corliss’s deep-rooted pride is evident in his diligent efforts to preserve and rejuvenate this cherished piece of history. Through the passage of time, the farm's natural splendor continues to radiate. It's more than just a physical location; it's an ongoing narrative, a connection between eras that encourages us to honor our origins and embrace our future journey.

A Central Piece Of
Bonney Lake History
1853
The Naches Trail is built. Evidence of the trail still exists on the property today.
1853–1856
Rueben Ashford Finnell homesteaded the Kelley Farm property. He abandoned the property during the Puget Sound Indian War after natives burned down his home and barn.
1864
William Barton Kelley and his family–including his father Nathan Kelley–traveled from Illinois to claim land in the “Northern Territory”. William and Nathan Kelley both claimed land on the banks of the Finnell Creek. William had two sons: John and Michael.
1875
William Barton Kelley was elected a member of Territorial Legislature.
1880
William Barton Kelley was elected Auditor of Pierce County.
1886
The “Ice House” was built and is still in existence on the property. Today, it is known as one of the oldest buildings in Pierce County.
1907
John Ezra Kelley marries Sadie Crader (Crider). John gave Sadie the Kelley Farm house (today’s Yellow House) as a wedding gift. John and Sadie have two children: Marion and Elizabeth.
1960’s
The Kelley Farm served as a dairy.
1970’s
John Kelley died in the 1970s. He was involved in a minor car accident on Elhi Hill. He went to the hospital and was sent home with undetected internal injuries.
1976
Harry Corliss purchases 100 acres from Elizabeth Kelley.
1970’s–80’s
Harry’s son, Scott Corliss took and interest in the property, the beauty, the preservation and the history.
1985
Sadie Kelley passed away.
1988
Elizabeth Kelley (Svinth) died of an aneurism. She was survived by her son Michael and daughter Marion. The remaining Kelley Farm property was willed to Michael.
1993-1999
The Kelley Farm is occupied by the Kelley Creek Brewery.
2001
In 2001, the Corliss Family purchased remaining 60 acres of the Kelley property. Restoration of the grounds and buildings began immediately.
Present
Today, the farm is restored to better than original condition, maintaining the integrity of the past while blending the modern amenities of today.