Dana DeLoca 9/30/25 Dana DeLoca 9/30/25

The Burns Village & Farm Concept Plan

Every community begins with a vision, and the founding members of Burns Village and Farm are excited to share the concept plan for Burns Village & Farm. This marks a major step forward in shaping our dream of a thriving, intentional village surrounded by farmland and preserved landscapes. In many meetings, we have walked the land together and determined the best locations for the homes. The chosen site, a gently sloping area near Highway 96, naturally forms a “bowl.” This topography provides a beautiful setting that allows some homes to feature walkout basements, adding both charm and function to our village design.

The village footprint has expanded to 18 acres under contract. This includes:

The Village – About 5 acres dedicated to 36 homes. This will be the heart of our community, where neighbors gather and life flows.

The Farm – About 4 acres set aside for cultivation and farm infrastructure, providing fresh food and hands-on experiences for everyone.

Preserved Land – Several acres of woodlands, open fields, an enlarged pond, and creek access. These areas will remain protected, protecting the biodiversity of the land.

One of our guiding commitments is environmental stewardship. We are taking special care to protect the Mother Oak, a landmark tree that anchors the property. We will join the consortium of landowners dedicated to preserving the ecosystem of Beaver Dam Creek.

This concept plan goes beyond lines on a map. It represents our shared vision of living with each other and with a nearby farm. By combining thoughtfully placed homes, working farmland, and preserved natural areas, Burns Village & Farm will become a place where community and conservation can thrive side by side.

This is just the beginning. As our plans evolve, so will the opportunities to get involved. Together, we’re creating a neighborhood and a nurturing way of life.

Ready to Begin?

Join us for an event or become an explorer to discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Attend an info session**
**Oct 1st at 7:00 - 8:00 pm (CT)**

**Take a site tour**
**October 12th at 2:00 - 3:30 pm**

**Have a lunch with us**
**October 18th at 12:30 - 1:30**

Dana DeLoca 9/27/25 Dana DeLoca 9/27/25

How to Become a Member of Burns Village & Farm

If you’ve ever considered living in a place where neighbors know one another, meals are created together, and a farm is part of daily life, then Burns Village & Farm might feel like home. Located just outside of Nashville, this intentional community blends cohousing with a professionally run working farm, creating a lifestyle that’s sustainable, connected, and grounded in shared values.

So, how do you go from being curious about Burns Village & Farm to becoming a member? Here’s the step-by-step journey.

Step 1: Learn About Burns Village & Farm

The first step is simple: immerse yourself in the story of this community.

Start by exploring the website burnsvillagefarm.com. You’ll find videos where current members share why they joined, blog posts that dig into the benefits of cohousing, and resources that explain what makes an “agrihood” unique. You can follow members on social media on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube as well.

Want to go deeper? Visit cohousing.org, the national hub for cohousing communities across the U.S. There, you’ll find a wealth of information on how cohousing works, from decision-making models to design principles.

This research phase is about more than facts; it’s about resonance. Take your time to notice what feels exciting, what sparks curiosity, and whether you can imagine yourself being part of a village that’s designed for connection.

Step 2: Attend an Information Session, Lunch, or Site Tour

Once you’ve explored online, the best way to truly understand Burns Village & Farm is to connect with the people who are building it.

The community hosts virtual information sessions twice a month, where members walk you through the vision and answer your questions. There are also monthly site tours in Burns, TN , giving you the chance to see the land, meet members in person, and imagine what life could look like once homes are built.

Members offer informal meals and group conversations so you can experience firsthand what community feels like. These gatherings are no-pressure, offered as opportunities to learn and connect.

Step 3: Become an Explorer

If the vision speaks to you, the next step is becoming an Explorer.

Explorers are individuals or households who want a closer look before making the decision to join as members. For a one-time $150 fee, you’ll have up to 90 days of “insider access.” This includes:

Joining member and Explorer-only meetings
Reviewing plans, finances, and governance documents in a series of curated documents and meetings with members
Attending exclusive events
Asking as many questions as you need to feel clear and confident

Think of this phase as a trial run. It gives you time and space to understand how the community works and whether it’s the right fit for your lifestyle and long-term goals. Best of all, if you decide to become a member, your Explorer fee is applied toward your membership contribution.

Step 4: Become a Member

After your Explorer period, if Burns Village & Farm feels like home, you can officially join as a Member household.

Membership means:

Committing to purchase a home (2-bedroom flats and 3-bedroom townhomes (some with possibility of a 4th bedroom in a walk-out basement) are currently projected between $360,000 – $700,000).
Joining in governance, where decisions are made through a collaborative, modified consensus-based process that values every voice.
Participating in helping to form the community, from shaping the Common House to joining teams that keep the village growing.

The first homes are expected to be move-in ready in late 2027, with infrastructure work beginning in 2026. By the time you settle in, you’ll be stepping into a way of life that values connection, sustainability, and shared purpose and moving into a home you helped design.

Ready to Begin?

The process of becoming a member is about more than signing papers, it’s about becoming a part of a vision. Start by exploring the website, watching the videos, and learning from the resources. Then take the next step by joining a virtual information session or site tour, meet the people who are shaping this village, and see if the energy feels right.

If it does, become an Explorer. And from there, the door to full membership and to a new way of living, opens wide.

Join us for an event or become an explorer to discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Attend an info session**
**Oct 2nd at 7:00 - 8:00 pm (CT)**

Dana DeLoca 9/22/25 Dana DeLoca 9/22/25

Peeling Back the Layers: Kathleen’s Journey to Burns Village & Farm

When you meet Kathleen, you quickly sense a life lived in service, reflection, and community. A retired hospital chaplain and social worker, a Quaker, and now a part-time seamstress, Kathleen has spent decades weaving together threads of connection, in her work, in her spiritual life, and now at Burns Village & Farm.

“I’ve always wanted to live in community,” she reflects. From her early college days studying the legacy of Black Mountain College to her time in ecumenical women’s groups and Quaker seminary, the idea of shared living, shared work, and shared growth has been her quiet compass.

Building for the Future

For Kathleen, joining Burns Village isn’t just about moving into a neighborhood; it’s about being part of something larger. She speaks candidly about her hope to live among people of all ages, not just those with “blue hair like me,” but younger families and individuals building their lives. “We need people that have children, who are in the midst of careers,” she says. “This is about creating a truly diverse community for the future”.

Letting Go to Begin Again

One of Kathleen’s most striking reflections is on what she calls “peeling the barnacles off my soul.” Over the years, she’s accumulated books, china sets, and the weight of past communities. Moving into Burns means releasing some of those things, not with sorrow, but with purpose. “I want to feel like I’m building something that’s going to reach beyond my life”.

Choosing Life Over Isolation

After the loss of a dear friend, Kathleen realized she didn’t want to “just sit in a box that’s called my house.” Instead, she wants to live fully, surrounded by neighbors she knows, engaged in the messy, beautiful work of building a village together. “Community means facing challenges, talking through them, and growing from them,” she says. “That’s the gift”.

Rooted in Place, Rooted in Hope

For Kathleen, the Tennessee land itself is part of the calling. “There’s so much wrong with this state,” she admits, “but it is so beautiful, so rich. To root the last days of my life here makes it worth investing what I have left.”

Kathleen’s story is both deeply personal and universally resonant. It’s about courage, letting go, and stepping into the unknown with faith. For anyone curious about Burns Village & Farm—whether you’re dreaming of belonging, looking for a more intentional way to live, or simply exploring what community could mean for you—her words are an invitation.

Interested in learning more about what we are creating at Burns Village and Farm?

Join us for an event or become an explorer to discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Have a lunch with us**
**September 20th at 12:30 - 1:30**

Dana DeLoca 9/18/25 Dana DeLoca 9/18/25

The Unseen Prescription: 5 Surprising Health Benefits of Living Close to Nature

We believe choosing this lifestyle is not just about where you live, but how deeply your surroundings support your well-being. Let’s explore five surprising, research-backed health benefits of living in a natural setting; Nature Strengthens Your Immune System, Nature Restores Mental Clarity, Nature Reconnects Our Microbiome, Nature Inspires Awe (and Connection), and Nature Heals Through Sound

For generations, people have dreamed of living closer to nature. Fresh air, wide-open skies, and room to move our bodies feel intuitively good. But science now shows that living in a nature-rich, rural environment offers far more than peace and quiet, it changes our biology, strengthens our immunity, and even shapes our mental health.

At Burns Village & Farm, we believe choosing this lifestyle is not just about where you live, but how deeply your surroundings support your well-being. Let’s explore five surprising, research-backed health benefits of living in a natural setting.

1. Nature Strengthens Your Immune System

Spending time among trees does more than relax you, it strengthens your body’s defenses. Trees release natural compounds called phytoncides, which help them ward off pests. When we breathe these in, our bodies respond by boosting Natural Killer (NK) cells, the white blood cells that fight off viruses and even tumor cells.

The effects last, too. A single weekend immersed in the woods can keep your immune system stronger for a full month. Studies also show that patients recovering from surgery heal faster when they have a view of greenery instead of a cement wall. Simply put: being surrounded by trees provides a constant, invisible boost to your health.

2. Nature Restores Mental Clarity

Modern life demands a lot from our brains, from constant screens, deadlines, and noise that wear us down. Scientists call this Directed Attention Fatigue. Nature offers the perfect antidote. Looking at trees, water, or open fields allows our minds to rest and reset, improving focus and creativity.

But there’s more. Spending time outdoors reduces rumination, the cycle of negative thoughts linked to depression and anxiety. In one study, a 90-minute walk in nature not only improved mood but also changed brain activity in ways that reduced negative thinking. The same walk in a city? No effect.

3. Nature Reconnects Our Microbiome

Our immune systems evolved in partnership with the natural world. The “Old Friends” hypothesis suggests that our bodies need exposure to certain microbes that are found in soil, plants, and animals to regulate properly. Without them, we see rising allergies, autoimmune conditions, and inflammatory diseases.

Living in a rural environment helps restore this balance. Research shows that people who spend time in green spaces develop a richer mix of healthy microbes on their skin and in their gut. Simply walking in nature changes the microbial diversity of the body, supporting immunity just like good nutrition or vitamin D.

4. Nature Inspires Awe (and Connection)

Think about standing beneath a star-filled sky or looking out over a still lake. That feeling of awe isn’t just emotional—it’s biological. Awe reduces self-critical thinking, lowers inflammation, and increases “feel-good” chemicals like oxytocin.

Even more powerful, awe makes us more generous, empathetic, and connected to others. Communities surrounded by beauty often foster deeper connection and kindness. At Burns Village & Farm, we believe awe is more than a fleeting moment; it’s the foundation for a stronger, more compassionate community.

5. Nature Heals Through Sound

City noise, like sirens, traffic, and the endless hum, creates constant stress. In contrast, the soundscapes of nature, like birds singing, leaves rustling, and water flowing, actively improve health. Studies show that natural sounds lower stress, improve mood, reduce pain, and even sharpen cognition.

The effect depends on the sound:

Water sounds (like a stream) most strongly improve mood and reduce pain.
Birdsong most effectively reduces stress and irritation.

Living near water and trees means your environment literally plays a healing soundtrack for your body and mind.

Bringing It All Together

It’s true that rural America often struggles with health outcomes, but this is due to limited access to healthcare and infrastructure, not because nature fails to deliver. At Burns Village & Farm, our vision is to combine the proven healing benefits of nature with a supportive, modern community.

Living here is more than an escape from the city. It’s a prescription for stronger immunity, clearer thinking, emotional resilience, and deeper connection. Nature doesn’t just make life more beautiful, it makes it healthier, too.

Interested in learning more about what we are creating at Burns Village and Farm?

Join us for an event or become an explorer to discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

Dana DeLoca 9/16/25 Dana DeLoca 9/16/25

The Disappearing Ties of Community

In reflecting on his family’s history, Eric, a Burns Village & Farm member, shares a story that spans multiple generations, each one experiencing a gradual shift away from deep-rooted community living. What once was a way of life built on interdependence has, over time, given way to more isolated lifestyles.

Roots in Cooperative Farming

His mother’s family, Polish farmers who immigrated to Michigan in the 1860s, arrived with little more than their savings, determination, and farming skills. They built their own homes, cultivated their land, and, most importantly, built a culture of helping one another. Harvest season was a community affair: neighbors gathered to work one farm at a time, ensuring no one was left behind. Life was hard, but the shared labor and mutual support made it not just bearable, but rewarding.

A Childhood with Neighbors, But Less Connection

By the time his mother raised her own family, that tight-knit agricultural model had faded. Growing up in a Michigan subdivision, he still experienced a sense of neighborhood camaraderie. Families shared access to a lakefront, participated in cleanup days, and enjoyed community events. Neighbors knew each other’s names, and children played together, but the cooperative spirit was already a shadow of the one his grandparents had known.

Parenting in the Digital Age

When it came time for him to raise his own children in California, the contrast was stark. Instead of gathering outdoors with friends, his kids often preferred video games and computer time. Encouraging them to participate in activities beyond screens became an uphill battle. He wondered if this was a reflection on his parenting, but also recognized it as part of a broader cultural shift, one where shared community activities are no longer the default.

Looking Back to Move Forward

His family’s story is more than nostalgia; it’s a reminder of how much has been lost in just a few generations. The journey from cooperative farming to suburban neighborhoods to digital isolation is more than a personal experience; it’s a reflection of broader societal changes. Rebuilding community today may require intentional effort, and as his family’s history shows, the benefits of connection are worth the work.

Join us for an event or become an explorer to discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Attend an info session**
**Sept 17th at 7:00 - 8:00 pm (CT)**

Dana DeLoca 9/13/25 Dana DeLoca 9/13/25

What We Imagine Community Meals Will Taste Like

At Burns Village & Farm, we dream of sharing meals in our Community House, the air filled with the scent of herbs just picked from the garden, neighbors laughing over steaming bowls of fresh, seasonal food. Here’s a taste of what we imagine we’ll cook together, three simple, nourishing recipes inspired by the vegetables we’ll grow right here on our land. Garden-Fresh Vegetable Frittata, Charred Vegetable & Herb Past, Roasted Root Vegetable & Kale Salad

Spring: Garden-Fresh Vegetable Frittata

Key Vegetables: Spinach, asparagus, scallions, herbs (parsley, chives)

Ingredients:

8 eggs
1 cup chopped fresh spinach
1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
3 scallions, sliced thin
½ cup grated cheese (cheddar, feta, or goat cheese)
2 tbsp fresh herbs, chopped
Salt & pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Heat a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, and sauté asparagus for 3–4 minutes until tender. Add scallions and spinach, cooking until wilted.
In a bowl, whisk eggs, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Pour over the vegetables in the skillet.
Sprinkle cheese on top and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until eggs are set.
Slice into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.

Perfect for a shared brunch or a light dinner with salad on the side.

Summer: Charred Vegetable & Herb Pasta

Key Vegetables: Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
2 cups cherry tomatoes
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: grated Parmesan or Pecorino

Instructions:

Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve ½ cup pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add zucchini and cook until lightly charred (5–6 minutes). Add cherry tomatoes and cook until blistered, about 3 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Toss in pasta, reserved pasta water, and basil. Stir until glossy and combined.
Season to taste, top with cheese if desired, and serve immediately.

Bright, colorful, and full of sunshine, the flavors of summer in every bite.

Fall: Roasted Root Vegetable & Kale Salad

Key Vegetables: Carrots, beets, sweet potatoes, kale

Ingredients:

2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
2 medium beets, peeled and chopped
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
4 cups kale, stems removed, leaves chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper
¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds
Dressing: 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, salt & pepper

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Toss carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25–30 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
Massage kale with a drizzle of olive oil for 1–2 minutes to soften.
Whisk together dressing ingredients.
Toss roasted vegetables with kale, drizzle with dressing, and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds before serving.

Earthy, sweet, and hearty, the perfect way to celebrate fall harvests together.

At Burns Village & Farm, food isn’t just fuel. It’s a way to connect, to celebrate the seasons, and to nourish both body and community. These recipes are just the beginning of what we’ll cook, share, and savor together.

Want to be part of our table?

Join us for an event or become an explorer to discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Take a site tour**
**September 14th at 2:00 - 3:30 pm**

Dana DeLoca 9/8/25 Dana DeLoca 9/8/25

Burns Village & Farm at TN Local Food’s Summer Supper

On Saturday, August 23, 2025, Burns Village & Farm had the honor of serving as the Presenting (Diamond) Sponsor of Local Table: TN Local Food’s Summer Supper at Hachland Hill Retreat. Hosted by TN Local Food, this fundraising dinner brought together farmers, chefs, educators, and community leaders committed to strengthening Tennessee’s local food movement.

A Night of Connection & Community

As the presenting sponsor, Burns Village & Farm was given the unique opportunity to:

Host a table of distinguished guests, including professors, sustainability advocates, and community leaders.
Share our story and vision with more than 125 attendees through a 4-minute presentation.
Align with TN Local Food in celebrating collaboration, sustainability, and local agriculture.

Our co-founders spoke about Burns Village & Farm’s mission: to create Tennessee’s first cohousing agrihood, where sustainable living, regenerative farming, and intentional community come together.

Rebecca opened our presentation by highlighting one of the central beliefs of Burns Village & Farm: a healthy life comes from the combination of good food, physical activity, restorative sleep, and social companionship.

She reminded the audience that Burns Village & Farm is built on social relationships and practicing the art of being a good neighbor. “Our goal is to create a community that values sustainability, embraces diversity, and makes plenty of room for joy and fun.”

Preserving Farms Through a New Model of Living

John followed by sharing his personal story. Raised on a farm and later living in a cohousing community in Virginia known as Blueberry Hill, he joked about being a “hobby farmer with a blueberry problem.” His life experiences shaped his deep belief that farming and community living can work beautifully together.

Today, there are more than 100 agrihoods across the U.S., each offering a unique model for preserving farmland while fostering healthy community life. Burns Village & Farm is proud to be part of this growing movement.

On the land that will one day be home to Burns Village & Farm, the owners currently steward 150 acres. They have agreed to sell 17 acres to BVF members. By doing so, they can continue to support agriculture on the majority of their land while our community flourishes alongside them.

“This is how we preserve farming,” John explained. “By creating a model where real estate and local food are integrated.”

Why It Matters for Tennessee

The need could not be more urgent. Tennessee has over 60,000 family farms today, but we are losing 1,300 farms each year. At this rate, more than 13,000 farms could be gone in the next decade.

John asked a question at the heart of our mission: “Where is the balance between development and local food?”

Agrihoods like Burns Village & Farm provide a sustainable answer, by ensuring that development strengthens farming rather than erasing it.

Living Your Values

Today, Burns Village & Farm already has nine invested households. Becoming a member is more than buying a home, it’s about putting your money where your values are.

John asked the audience to imagine a simple future moment:

“You’re sitting in the community clubhouse at Burns Village & Farm, sharing a potluck meal with your neighbors. You glance out the window and see the fields where your food was grown. That’s what we’re building together.”

Watch the Presentation

We’ve uploaded the full 4-minute video from the event to our YouTube channel. If you’ve ever wondered what makes Burns Village & Farm unique, this clip offers a glimpse into the heart of our project.

Our Partnership with TN Local Food

The Summer Supper fundraiser reflects exactly what we believe in: food as connection, farming as stewardship, and community as resilience. By supporting TN Local Food, Burns Village & Farm is helping expand access to healthy local foods across the state and investing in the next generation of farmers and food entrepreneurs.

An Invitation to Join Us

Our founders closed with a heartfelt invitation: if this vision resonates with you, we encourage you to attend an information session, luncheon, or site tour. It’s the best way to experience firsthand how Burns Village & Farm is shaping the future of sustainable living and local food.

👉 Join a Virtual Information Session

Together, we can protect Tennessee farmland, support local farmers, and create a thriving community where health, sustainability, and joy go hand in hand.

Dana DeLoca 9/3/25 Dana DeLoca 9/3/25

The Real Health Benefits of Living Close to Nature in Burns, Tennessee

Imagine waking up to the sound of a stream trickling nearby. The morning light filters through a canopy of trees, the air feels fresh and clean, and there’s a quiet hum of life all around you. This isn’t just a pretty picture; it’s a way of life that science says is genuinely good for your body and mind.

At Burns Village & Farm, we’re building more than homes. We’re creating a community that lives in harmony with nature, and the benefits go far beyond the view.

Less Stress, More Peace

Spending time around trees, streams, and open skies can lower stress in ways city living simply can’t match. Studies on “forest bathing” (the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku) show that spending time in nature can reduce cortisol (stress hormone), lower blood pressure, and even slow your heart rate. Just a short walk outside your front door here in Burns can give you the same mental reset as a weekend getaway elsewhere.

Better Focus & Mental Clarity

Ever notice how your mind feels calmer and clearer after a walk in the woods? That’s no accident. Researchers call it “attention restoration”; the gentle sounds and sights of nature (like rustling leaves or flowing water) help your brain recover from constant stimulation. You think better, focus longer, and feel less mentally drained.

Stronger Immune System

It turns out, breathing in fresh forest air does more than feel good; it can actually boost your immune system. Trees release natural compounds called phytoncides that have been shown to increase the activity of “natural killer” cells, which help fight off illness. In Burns, you’re surrounded by these living, breathing health allies.

Cleaner Air, Healthier Living

The trees around Burns Village & Farm aren’t just beautiful; they filter out pollutants, improve air quality, and help keep respiratory issues at bay. Add in the clean scent of fresh rain or the earthy smell of leaves after a summer storm, and every breath here feels like a small dose of wellness.

A Stream as Your Neighbor

Living near a healthy stream means more than a pretty view. Riparian buffers, the trees and plants along the water, naturally filter runoff, keeping the ecosystem (and the environment) cleaner and healthier. And research shows that being near water can lower anxiety and promote feelings of calm.

A Healthier, Happier Way to Live

When you live in a place like Burns Village & Farm, you’re not just buying a home, you’re choosing a lifestyle that nourishes your mind, body, and spirit every single day. You’ll know your neighbors, breathe cleaner air, and fall asleep to the gentle soundtrack of nature. Experience the fresh air, peaceful landscapes, and warm community of Burns Village & Farm. You might just find the place you’ve been looking for.

Join us for an event or become an explorer to discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Attend an info session**
**Sept 3rd at 7:00 - 8:00 pm (CT)**

Dana DeLoca 8/31/25 Dana DeLoca 8/31/25

Donna’s Dream: A Medicinal Garden for Burns Village & Farm

Donna, a member of Burns Village & Farm, has a personal vision, a thriving medicinal garden filled with plants that heal, soothe, and nourish in her yard at Burns Village and Farm. Luckily, the climate in Burns, Tennessee, offers the perfect conditions for such a garden to flourish.

Disclaimer: The information shared in this video is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any plants or herbs for medicinal purposes.

Donna, a member of Burns Village & Farm, has a personal vision, a thriving medicinal garden filled with plants that heal, soothe, and nourish in her yard at Burns Village and Farm. Fortunately, the climate in Burns, Tennessee, provides the ideal conditions for such a garden to thrive.

Here in this video, she shares her medicinal garden that she’s growing right now before Burns Village & Farm breaks ground (See her full list below). This is a true passion for Donna.

Situated in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b, Burns’ seasons bring hot, sunny summers, cool, wet winters, and about 53 inches of annual rainfall. This balance makes it possible to grow an abundance of medicinal herbs, many of which have been used for centuries in teas, salves, tinctures, and home remedies.

Among the top contenders for Donna’s personal garden is echinacea, the vibrant coneflower known for its immune-boosting properties and often found in herbal teas and tinctures during cold and flu season.

Chamomile, with its dainty white blossoms, is another must-have, perfect for calming the nerves, aiding digestion, and making a gentle tea that’s even safe for children. For topical remedies, calendula is a powerhouse; its leaves and flowers can be infused into salves to help heal bruises, sprains, and minor skin injuries.

No medicinal garden would be complete without mint, whether spearmint or peppermint, thriving in our humid summers and offering digestive support, respiratory relief, and a refreshing base for teas.

Lavender is another garden star, valued for its calming fragrance and used in everything from sleep aids to skincare products.

Chicory, a great sedative and analgesic, similar to Ibuprofen. The roots, leaves, and seeds can be used for its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties too. Coffee, tea, poultices, and tinctures can be made from this versatile plant.

Finally, purple giant hyssop adds beauty and purpose, attracting pollinators while contributing to soothing herbal blends with its mint-family medicinal benefits.

Central beds of echinacea and chamomile can provide easy access for regular tea harvests. Most of these medicinal plants thrive in sunny areas with well-draining soil and occasional fertilizing. It’s rewarding when you have created a garden that’s as beautiful as it is useful.

Burns Village & Farm is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a heart-centered oasis where sustainable agriculture, intentional living, and connection to the land come together. From our community-supported agriculture program to seasonal workshops and farm gatherings, everything we do is rooted in a love for nature and each other. Donna’s personal medicinal garden is just one more way we’re cultivating a place where health and harmony can grow side by side.

If you’re curious about life at Burns Village & Farm or want to bring your own garden dreams to life, we invite you to learn more. Attend a virtual information session and discover a community where nature’s wisdom is part of daily living, and where every seed planted tells a story of care, connection, and hope for the future.

Join us for an event or become an explorer to discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

🌿 Donna’s Full List

Chicory
“Chicory: a healer in disguise. Roots roasted for coffee, leaves to soothe pain. 🌱☕ Imagine this in Tennessee soil.”

Yarrow
“Yarrow: the ancient wound healer. Bleeding stopped, digestion soothed, power in every tiny petal. ✨🍵”

California Poppy
“California Poppy: not just beauty, an infusion for calm nerves and restful sleep. 🌼💤”

Echinacea
“Echinacea: immune defense from seed to tincture. A little plant with big strength against colds and flu. 🌸🧪”

Calendula
“Calendula: sunshine for your skin. Petals brewed as tea to calm, heal, and restore. 🌞🌼”

Marshmallow
“Marshmallow root: comfort for the stomach. Cooked down, it eases heartburn and ulcers. 🌿🍵”

Chamomile
“Chamomile: gentle medicine in a cup. A tea for digestion, a nightly ritual for peace. 🌼☕”

Evening Primrose
“Evening Primrose: a women’s ally. Hormone balance, bruise relief, and quiet strength at dusk. 🌙🌸”

Feverfew
“Feverfew: small but mighty. Headache relief, insect repellent, camomile’s lookalike with a twist. 🌿✨”

Lavender
“Lavender: calm in bloom. Anxiety eased, sleep invited, sip it as tea, breathe it as peace. 💜🌿”

Dana DeLoca 8/26/25 Dana DeLoca 8/26/25

Finding a Home in the Countryside

When some members picture their days once the village is complete, it’s a mix of peaceful solitude and neighborly connection. “I’ll get up and decide if I want company or not. If I do, I can walk out the front door and hang out or head to the common house. If I don’t, I can go out the back door, sit for a while, and enjoy the quiet.”

For many members, the appeal of Burns Village & Farm was clear from the start. “It’s the countryside,” they say without hesitation. “I’ve never been much of a city person. All my adult life, I’ve lived in the country. The fact that this will be rural is really attractive to me. And the people, everyone is so nice. You can just tell it’s going to be a good community.”

Imagining Everyday Life

With sidewalks connecting the homes and shared spaces, getting around will be easy for them. “I won’t be doing a lot of running around because I’m a bit limited in how much I can walk, but I’ll be able to reach the places I want to go. And I can still enjoy the countryside, look out and see the trees and the pastures. That’s what I’m going to love most.”

Discovering CoHousing

What sold some members was the blend of privacy and connection. “Cohousing gives you a community, which is so nice, people you know nearby, but you’re not on top of each other. It’s kind of like neighborhoods used to be years ago, where everybody knew everybody, and you’d gather in someone’s yard. Only here, it’s a bit more condensed, and there’s a common house where you can meet up if you want to. You can be as active or as private as you want.”

The Joy of Sharing Meals

One of the shared experiences members look forward to most is gathering for meals. “That’s when you really get to know people, sharing food, conversation, and being there for the common good of the community. It’s a small system, but you can make it what you need it to be.”

More Connection, Every Day

Life for some can be isolating, and they look forward to the connection they will feel at Burns Village and Farm. “Some days, the only living things I see are my animals, unless I decide to go to town. At Burns Village & Farm, I believe I will just step outside, and there’s a good chance I’ll run into someone. That’s going to make a big difference for me.”

Gardening in a New Way

Some members also envision gardening playing a part in their daily rhythm. Some will create raised beds because at the right height will make gardening easier for them. “I can still do ground gardening, but this way I can keep at it comfortably and enjoy growing things.”

For many, Burns Village & Farm isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place to belong. It’s the countryside they’ve always loved, paired with the kind of community spirit they are ready to embrace.

Join us for an event or become an explorer to discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

Dana DeLoca 8/22/25 Dana DeLoca 8/22/25

10 Reasons Why Living in a Rural Cohousing Community Can Transform Your Health & Wellness

At Burns Village & Farm, community is designed to nourish your body, mind, and spirit. From daily walks in the woods to fresh organic meals harvested from the farm, cohousing offers a way of life that naturally supports your health. Here are 10 reasons why rural cohousing might be the shift you’ve been looking for.

When you imagine a healthier lifestyle, you might think of joining a gym or committing to a new diet. But what if the secret to lasting wellness isn’t another program, but where, and with whom, you live?

1. Nature Is Your Playground

Instead of squeezing in a quick walk between errands, imagine stepping outside your door into trails, meadows, and wooded paths. Time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. Here, it’s part of daily life.

2. Movement Comes Naturally

Gardening, building, walking, biking, and physical activity are woven into the rhythm of the day. You don’t need to “work out” when moving your body is a natural extension of tending the land and engaging with neighbors.

3. Fresh Food From the Source

Forget long supply chains and labels you can’t decipher. At Burns Village & Farm, meals often come straight from the soil, organic produce, seasonal harvests, and farm-to-table gatherings that remind you what food is meant to taste like.

4. Less Screen Time, More Green Time

Instead of endless scrolling, your evenings might include watching the sunset with neighbors, tending a garden bed, or listening to the pond frogs after a summer rain. The slower pace helps reset your nervous system and quiet mental noise.

5. Daily Social Connection

Loneliness and isolation are leading health risks today. Cohousing flips the script. From spontaneous front-porch conversations to shared meals, you’re surrounded by people who know your name and care about your well-being.

6. Built-In Emotional Support

Life brings challenges, aging parents, stressful jobs, and personal losses. In cohousing, support isn’t something you have to schedule. It’s embedded in the daily fabric of community life, making resilience a collective strength.

7. Shared Spaces for Mindfulness

Whether it’s a meditation circle in the Common House or a quiet nook overlooking the fields, cohousing makes space for reflection. Mindfulness becomes easier when it’s not only personal practice, but community culture.

8. A Culture of Contribution

Helping weed a garden row, cooking for a potluck, or lending a hand with childcare, these small acts of service provide a deep sense of purpose. Research shows that contributing to others boosts happiness and lowers stress.

9. Intergenerational Living

Instead of silos by age or stage, cohousing brings together families, singles, retirees, and children. This diversity creates a rich social fabric and reduces the isolation that often comes with traditional housing models.

10. Living Aligned With Your Values

Sustainability, community, wellness, these aren’t slogans here, they’re everyday practices. When your lifestyle reflects your values, it brings a sense of wholeness that directly contributes to health and well-being.

Cohousing isn’t just about where you live. It’s about how you live, and who you live alongside. If you’ve ever longed for a healthier, more connected life, Burns Village & Farm shows it’s possible to have both community and wellness in one place.

Join us for an event or become an explorer to discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Have a lunch with us**
**August 23rd at 12:30 - 1:30**

Dana DeLoca 8/17/25 Dana DeLoca 8/17/25

Living in Community & Nature

When you ask any of our members what kind of community Burns Village & Farm is meant to be, they don’t hesitate. They paint a picture of a place where you know your neighbor, not just in passing, but in a way that builds trust, shared experiences, and a real sense of belonging. It’s not about waving from across the street and forgetting the conversation. It’s about knowing each other’s stories, checking in when someone hasn’t been seen for a while, and being there when help is needed.

That closeness isn’t accidental. Burns Village & Farm is designed for people who want to live with a stronger connection to both nature and the people around them. Members talk about a “shared desire to be closer to nature and farming,” but that phrase goes beyond simply enjoying fresh air or buying local produce. It’s about engaging with the land, whether that’s tending to crops, learning new gardening techniques, or simply walking among the fields and feeling the seasons change. For many here, it’s a return to something they’ve been missing in modern life: the satisfaction of knowing where their food comes from and being part of the process that brings it to the table.

The farm is a hub, but it’s not the only thing tying neighbors together. Members envision a community built around like-minded social interests, spaces where people can gather for farm-to-table dinners, seasonal festivals, workshops, and small events that keep life here lively and connected. These aren’t forced or formal interactions; they grow naturally from the shared values that draw people here in the first place. If you value sustainability, health, and a slower, more intentional way of life, you’ll find people here who feel the same way.

In a world where so many neighborhoods feel disconnected, Burns Village & Farm offers something different. It’s not about retreating from the modern world, but about rethinking what “home” means. Here, the design of the neighborhood encourages interaction, paths that cross often, spaces where people can gather spontaneously, and a rhythm of life that keeps neighbors engaged with one another.

And while the vision includes farming and nature at its heart, it’s also about flexibility. Some residents may be deeply involved in farm operations, while others simply enjoy the benefits, fresh produce, open green spaces, and the peace that comes from living in a place where nature is part of daily life. The common thread is choice: the freedom to participate in a way that fits your lifestyle while still contributing to the whole.

Our members’ words carry a simple truth: this is a place where the connection you have to your surroundings is as important as the roof over your head. It’s about neighbors who feel more like extended family, the shared joy of harvesting the first vegetables of the season, and the comfort of knowing you’re part of something sustainable, not just environmentally, but socially.

Burns Village & Farm isn’t for everyone, and that’s what makes it special. It’s for people who see value in a slower pace, who want to swap more screen time for more green time, and who believe that knowing your neighbor should still mean something. In many ways, it’s a modern answer to an old-fashioned question: What does it mean to truly belong somewhere?

It means living in a place where the land and the people around you matter equally, where community is not a slogan but a way of life, and where every handshake and hello carries the weight of real connection. Burns Village & Farm is that place, a village where the lines between home, nature, and friendship blur into one.

About Burns Village & Farm
Burns Village & Farm is a planned neighborhood and working organic farm in Burns, Tennessee. Our vision is a place where people live in harmony with nature, share in the bounty of the land, and enjoy a strong sense of community.

Join us for an event and discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Attend an info session**
**August 20th at 7:00 - 8:00 pm (CT)**

Dana DeLoca 8/14/25 Dana DeLoca 8/14/25

What We’ll Grow Year-Round at Burns Village & Farm

Our organic farm will be the heart of the community, a place where neighbors gather, soil is cared for, and food is grown without pesticides. Our professional farmer will keep the fields productive throughout the year, rotating crops to match the seasons and Tennessee’s climate.

At Burns Village & Farm, our organic farm will be the heart of the community, a place where neighbors gather, soil is cared for, and food is grown without pesticides. Our professional farmer will keep the fields productive all year long, rotating crops to match the seasons and Tennessee’s climate. Some members will be more involved, some will just enjoy the harvest.

Here’s a look at what we might expect from our fields in each season, and why these vegetables are as good for your health as they are for your taste buds.

Spring – Fresh, Green, and Nutrient-Rich

We imagine as winter fades, the fields come alive with cool-season vegetables.

Broccoli, cabbage, and kale – Packed with vitamins C and K, folate, and cancer-fighting antioxidants.
Spinach and peas – Excellent sources of iron, vitamin A, and fiber.
Carrots and parsnips – Sweet, earthy roots rich in beta-carotene for eye health.
Asparagus – A spring delicacy full of antioxidants and B vitamins.

These early crops thrive in the mild spring air and bring vibrant color and flavor to our community tables.

Summer – Sun-Ripened and Flavor-Packed

Warm, sunny days call for heat-loving vegetables that soak up Tennessee’s long summer light.

Tomatoes – Bursting with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health.
Peppers – High in vitamins C and A, with a range from sweet to spicy.
Eggplants – A source of fiber and phytonutrients that support brain health.
Corn and beans – Together, they make a complete plant-based protein, along with fiber and B vitamins.
Cucumbers and summer squash – Hydrating, crisp, and low in calories.

Summer harvests are abundant, perfect for fresh salads, grilled meals, and preserving for cooler months.

Fall – Crisp Air, Sweet Flavors

As the air cools, we return to hardy greens and root crops that love shorter days.

Kale, spinach, and lettuce – Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Carrots, radishes, and turnips – Roots become sweeter after a light frost, offering vitamin C and potassium.
Cabbage and collards – Dense in nutrients, excellent for soups and braises.

We also plant cover crops like rye and clover in fall to naturally enrich the soil, preparing for the next growing season.

Winter – Hardy Greens Under Cover

Even in the coldest months, our farm keeps producing with the help of simple season-extension methods like row covers and unheated hoop houses.

Spinach, parsley, arugula, and winter kale – Cold-tolerant greens that keep vitamins A, C, and K on our plates year-round.

While much of winter is devoted to resting the soil, planning crops, and adding compost, these fresh greens remind us that farming is never fully dormant.

At Burns Village & Farm, growing food is more than a seasonal activity; it’s a year-round rhythm that connects us to the land, our health, and each other. Whether you’re harvesting kale in February or tomatoes in July, you’ll know exactly where your food comes from and the care that went into growing it.

Join us for an event and discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Take a site tour**
**August 17th at 2:00 - 3:30 pm**

Dana DeLoca 8/2/25 Dana DeLoca 8/2/25

How Decisions Are Made in Our Community

Unlike traditional HOAs or housing developments, cohousing allows all members to have a voice. Major decisions, such as home construction, shared responsibilities, and sustainability efforts are made collaboratively, not dictated by a single entity or a board of directors.

One of the most unique aspects of co-housing is the consensus-based decision-making process. Brian explains:

“Everything is done with meetings, discussions, and consensus. Everyone has an equal say.”

Unlike traditional HOAs or housing developments, cohousing allows all members to have a voice. Major decisions, such as home construction, shared responsibilities, and sustainability efforts, are made collaboratively, not dictated by a single entity or a board of directors.

Weekly community meetings ensure everyone is heard.
Committees handle specific tasks to keep the process efficient.
The focus is on collective problem-solving rather than rigid rules.

If you’ve ever been frustrated by traditional housing restrictions, Burns Village & Farm cohousing near Nashville offers a refreshing alternative, one where your voice truly matters.

Join us for an event and discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Attend an info session**
**August 6th at 7:00 - 8:00 pm (CT)**

Dana DeLoca 7/29/25 Dana DeLoca 7/29/25

The Joy of Shared Experiences in Cohousing

What excites Aundra most about living at Burns Village & Farm? The experiences. The people. The energy. “The farming, the gardening, the collaboration, the activities, just being with people and loving on them. That’s what life is about.”

From Gardening to Hugs: The Everyday Magic of Community Life

What excites Aundra most about living at Burns Village & Farm? The experiences. The people. The energy.

“The farming, the gardening, the collaboration, the activities, just being with people and loving on them. That’s what life is about.”

In a world where loneliness is becoming a growing epidemic, cohousing provides an antidote, a built-in community where people check in on each other, cook together, and celebrate life’s simple moments.

Imagine starting your day planting vegetables in the garden and ending it around a communal table, sharing food, laughter, and conversation? How joyful is that!

“I love people, no matter where they’re from. I’m not judgmental. I just love people.”

In a world that often feels divided, Burns Village & Farm fosters unity, connection, and joy through shared experiences, not just as an ideal, but grounded in shared values and daily practices. As a cohousing community, it’s designed to replace isolation with intentional togetherness. Neighbors live near each other, cook meals together, share gardens, raise children in community, and support one another through life’s challenges and celebrations.

In this village, there will be gathering places, shared sacred spaces, privacy, and collaboration as a way of life.

It’s a return to the village model, where people are known, valued, and uplifted, celebrating and valuing the diversity of interests, skills, and experiences. Burns Village & Farm is being carefully designed to support the essential need to belong in ways that respect differences in how individuals and families want to participate.

Join us for an event and discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

Dana DeLoca 7/27/25 Dana DeLoca 7/27/25

The Farm Brings Us Together

The founding members of Burns Village & Farm gathered beneath the wide, sheltering limbs of the Mother Oak for a shared potluck picnic on the future home site. Folding chairs circled. Paper plates filled with summer dishes and snacks. Conversations meandered from construction to compost, from personal stories to shared dreams.

Under the Mother Oak: Rooting Community in Shared Soil

Amid a weekend of conversations about design and decisions, one moment grounded everything, not in words or whiteboards, but in presence.

Some brought family recipes. Others grabbed something en route. It didn’t matter. What mattered was the ritual: showing up with something to share, including food, warmth, ideas, and presence. For a few hours, the land held their laughter, their questions, and their quiet knowing: this is what we’re really building.

But this retreat wasn’t all reflection. It was also rigorous. Members walked the land together, talked through key site features, and moved through a full working agenda:

They explored green building standards with Joe Cooper.
Discussed the path forward with Sandy and John while naming what’s working, what’s unclear, and what comes next.
Showed appreciation for one another by exchanging heartfelt reflections and quiet gestures of support that deepened their sense of connection and community.
Ended the weekend with a formal check-out and a closing reflection on Burns Village & Farm, and its potential, its role, and how to honor it.

And yes, they planted together, not as farmers, but as future neighbors. The act of putting hands in soil was symbolic and a fun shared activity.

The farm will be led by a professional. But this land and this meal under the oak? That was the first layer of something real, a connection made deeper.

Have questions? Good. We’ve got time.

Become an Explorer to get personalized guidance, deeper insight into the process, and a front-row seat to how this community is coming to life, one real conversation at a time. More about becoming an Explorer

Join us for an event and discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Have lunch with us**
**August 23rd at 12:30 - 1:30**

Dana DeLoca 7/23/25 Dana DeLoca 7/23/25

Big Decisions, Bold Conversations

Armed with markers, sticky dots, and a shared commitment to intentional living, the founding members worked through a wide-ranging list of topics, many of which had surfaced in prior meetings. These aren't hypothetical questions. They are questions about the agreements, plans, and design choices that will shape the community.

Designing a Village, Together

The BV&F retreat was about connection, and it was about making significant progress on decisions that will define daily life at Burns Village & Farm. Armed with markers, sticky dots, and a shared commitment to intentional living, the founding members worked through a wide-ranging list of topics, many of which had surfaced in prior meetings. These aren't hypothetical questions; they are questions about the agreements, plans, and design choices that will shape the community.

Here’s a snapshot of what was discussed:

Unit Mix + Unit Sizes: How to balance different needs and lifestyles through a variety of home sizes and layouts throughout Burns Village & Farm.
Covered Parking + EV Charging: Future-proofing the village by integrating electric vehicle charging and discussing the value of covered spots to protect cars.
Building Standards + a 3rd-Party Verifier: Ensuring consistent quality and accountability through clearly defined construction standards and possibly an independent verifier to guide us along the way.
Site Prep Plan: Coordinating timelines and responsibilities for grading, infrastructure, and utilities before construction begins.
Outbuildings: Determining the role of sheds and accessory buildings while weighing in on their usefulness and limitations.
Budget Review: Reviewing financials and exploring trade-offs to stay aligned with core priorities while managing costs.
Resale: Establishing guidelines to preserve the integrity and accessibility of the community over time.
Rental Policy + Investor Owners: Discussing owner-occupancy requirements and boundaries for rentals to avoid absentee ownership.
Landscaping Around Units: Clarifying who maintains what, and how landscaping reflects the community’s ecological goals.
Fencing (Common/Shared/Limited Common): Drawing lines between private and communal spaces while maintaining visual cohesion.
Personal Gardens: Supporting individual food or flower gardens without compromising shared land or views.

Lighting: Striking a balance between safety and preserving dark skies for stargazing and natural ambiance.
Dog Park + Pet Policy: Balancing pet-friendly ideals with noise, cleanliness, and shared enjoyment.
Acoustics: Ensuring units and shared spaces provide a sense of quiet and personal space.
Smoking Boundaries: Creating clear zones to maintain clean air and mutual comfort.
Gas Blowers + Electric Appliances: Considering bans on gas-powered tools and promoting quieter, cleaner electric alternatives.
Basements (Indoor vs. Outdoor Access): Evaluating the cost, functionality, and moisture risk of including basements, and how they might be accessed.
Use of Shared Equipment (e.g., lawnmowers: Drafting policies for how members may access and maintain community-owned tools.
Facilitation + Documentation: Affirming the need for structured facilitation and robust note-taking to support transparency, progress, and inclusion.

Join us for an event and discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Have a lunch with us**
**July 26th at 12:30 - 1:30**

Dana DeLoca 7/22/25 Dana DeLoca 7/22/25

The Loneliness Epidemic. How Cohousing Creates Community

Hear from founding member, Barbara, who considers herself a homebody, but even for someone who enjoys time alone. She recognizes the importance of human connection. She believes that belonging is a fundamental human need, and at Burns Village, that sense of belonging is built into the design of the community itself.

Barbara considers herself a homebody, but even for someone who enjoys time alone, she recognizes the importance of human connection. She believes that belonging is a fundamental human need, and at Burns Village, that sense of belonging is built into the design of the community itself.

One of the biggest issues in modern life is loneliness, not the absence of people, but the absence of meaningful connection.

We’ve built lives that prioritize personal freedom and convenience, but often at the cost of community and daily human interaction.

Many people go days without meaningful interactions, even in neighborhoods filled with people. But cohousing naturally combats loneliness because it’s designed to foster organic, everyday connections.

Burns Village & Farm is designed to change the way we connect as a community, by creating a place where neighbors truly know, support, and grow with each other.

Barbara loves that at Burns Village & Farm, she doesn’t have to go out of her way to find community, it’s right outside her door. Whether it’s chatting with a neighbor on the way home, participating in a community event, or just knowing that help is available when needed, cohousing makes sure that no one feels isolated.

Join us for an event and discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Attend an info session**
**July 23th at 7:00 - 8:00 pm (CT)**

Barabara makes a plan during the member retreat this spring.

Dana DeLoca 7/8/25 Dana DeLoca 7/8/25

From Zoom Calls to Dirt Under Fingernails: Founders Gather for a Working Retreat

Founding members of Burns Village & Farm gathered in person for a retreat, bringing their vision of a thriving cohousing community one step closer to reality. After many months of Zoom calls and planning sessions, the chance to connect face-to-face felt both grounding and energizing.

On May 17–18, the founding members of Burns Village & Farm gathered in person for a retreat, bringing their vision of a thriving cohousing community one step closer to reality. After many months of Zoom calls and planning sessions, the chance to connect face-to-face felt both grounding and energizing.

The group met at John and Rebecca’s home, where they spent time in nature, shared meals, and strengthened the relationships that will sustain this ambitious project. They held a potluck picnic under the “Mother Oak,” a powerful symbol of rootedness and resilience on the future village site.

One highlight? Getting their hands in the dirt, while planting for fun and connection.

As many of our followers know by now, Burns Village & Farm will have a professional farmer to lead the long-term cultivation, but this lighthearted gardening moment reminded everyone why the land matters.

Throughout the weekend, members spoke honestly about expectations, their shared aspirations, and made space for heart-to-heart conversations and ongoing reality checks.

This wasn’t just a retreat. It was a recalibration and a recommitment to building something extraordinary, together.

The village begins long before the homes are built.
We’ve documented this retreat to let those who are curious to see how the community will work. Sit in on a virtual session and see what it feels like to be part of something real, something rising from the ground up.

Join us for an event and discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living

**Attend an info session**
**July 9th at 7:00 - 8:00 pm (CT)**

**Have a lunch with us**
**July 19th at 12:30 - 1:30**

**Take a site tour**
**July 20th at 2:00 - 3:30 pm**

Dana DeLoca 7/3/25 Dana DeLoca 7/3/25

Living in Burns, Tennessee: A Hidden Gem with Southern Charm

Nestled in the heart of Dickson County, Burns, Tennessee, is a small town that offers the tranquility of rural living with the convenience of nearby urban amenities. With a population of approximately 1,573 as of the 2020 census, Burns is an ideal location for those seeking a close-knit community atmosphere.

Daily Life in Burns

Residents of Burns enjoy a peaceful lifestyle characterized by friendly neighbors and a strong sense of community. The town's small size fosters close relationships among residents, making it an excellent place for families, retirees, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Climate and Weather

Burns experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average high temperatures range from 46°F in January to 86°F in July, while average lows range from 24°F to 65°F . The area receives approximately 53 inches of precipitation annually, with rainfall fairly common year-round and occasional thunderstorms in the spring and summer months.

Parks and Recreation

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in and around Burns. The town is home to Montgomery Bell State Park, a 3,850-acre natural oasis offering camping, cabins, lodge rooms, golfing, hiking, and more . The park features three lakes, providing opportunities for swimming, paddling, and fishing .

Additionally, the town's Parks & Recreation department offers various recreational opportunities, including a gymnasium for indoor activities.

Dining and Local Attractions

Burns boasts a selection of local eateries that cater to a variety of tastes. Notable shopping and restaurants include:

Pelican Picks Antiques and Vintage: 3008 Church St, Burns, TN 37029 This shop offers treasures of many kinds, including vintage books and toys, glassware and cookware, art and pottery, and unique surprises.

Moss & Embers Gifts and Housewares: 2100 Highway 96, Burns, TN 37029 This delightful shop includes a wide variety of beautifully curated items, including home decor, jewelry, kitchen and bar tools, packaged foods, art, greeting cards, and gifts.

Twin Lakes Catfish Kitchen: Known for its boneless filet, deep-fried shrimp, oysters, scallops, and frog legs .
Jeanine's Cafe: A cozy spot offering classic American fare.
The Restaurant at Montgomery Bell: Located within Montgomery Bell State Park, this full-service, family-friendly restaurant overlooks Lake Acorn, providing a scenic dining experience.

For those interested in history, the Lonesome Historic Site preserves the oldest dwelling in South Dickson County, the Lonesome cabin, built in 1821.

Proximity to Nashville and Surrounding Areas

One of Burns' significant advantages is its proximity to Nashville. The town is approximately 30 miles west to Nashville, translating to a driving time of about 30 minutes. This close distance allows residents to enjoy the serenity of small-town life while having easy access to the amenities and opportunities of a major city.

Education and Extracurricular Activities

Burns is served by the Dickson County School District, which includes:

Stuart Burns Elementary School: Serving grades PK-5, this school has a student-teacher ratio of 16:1 and is rated 7/10 by GreatSchools.
Burns Middle School: Catering to grades 6-8, with a student-teacher ratio of 15:1.

For high school, students typically attend Dickson County High School, located in the nearby city of Dickson.

Extracurricular activities are abundant, with options such as band, choir, drama club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) available at Burns Middle School. Additionally, the Dickson County Family YMCA offers day camps and various programs to keep children engaged during school breaks.

A Glimpse into History

Originally known as Mile Post 36 due to its distance from Nashville, Burns has a rich history dating back to the Civil War era when it was inhabited by Union soldiers and railroad workers. The town's historical roots contribute to its unique character and charm.

As of late 2024 and early 2025, several new businesses have opened or are set to open in Burns, Tennessee, and within a 15-mile radius, particularly in Dickson County. Recent business licenses issued in Burns include according to Dickson County Source, include:

Hendrixson's Garage (Nov 2024): A mechanic shop located on Pine Hill Road.

Cutting Edge Land Solutions LLC (Nov 2024): Specializing in excavating and land clearing services on Sanders Mill Road.

Jensmith LLC (Dec 2024): Offering laser engraving services on Forest Court.

Maid To Shine Cleaning Service (Dec 2024): A cleaning service based on Spencer Mill Road.

Legacy Property Solutions (May 2024): Providing lawn care services, operating from Hogan Road.

Burns Backdoor Barber & Beauty (Apr 2024): A barber and beauty shop situated on Church Street.

Cajun Lake Clubhouse (May 2024): A restaurant located on Highway E.

New Developments in Dickson County (Within 15 Miles)

In the broader Dickson County area, several businesses have recently opened:

China Wok Dickson Inc (Dec 2024): A new restaurant on Highway S in Dickson.

Velvet Nails (Dec 2024): A nail salon located on Church Street Suite in Dickson.

Skeeters Country Market (Dec 2024): A market on Yellow Creek Road in Dickson.

Mile Post 42 LLC (Dec 2024): A food and drink establishment on North Main Street in Dickson.

Lucie's Laundromat LLC (Nov 2024): A laundromat on Highway North in Charlotte.

Joel's Auto Body LLC (Nov 2024): A body shop and repair service on Circle U Drive Unit A in Dickson.

Upcoming Projects and Developments

Dickson County Center for Higher Education: Groundbreaking occurred in November 2024 for this state-of-the-art facility, which will serve as the permanent Dickson campus for Nashville State and TCAT Dickson's nursing and allied health programs. (nscc.edu)

Big Lots Reopening: The Big Lots store at 220 Dickson Plaza Drive in Dickson is among the locations being reopened by Variety Wholesalers Inc., with a grand opening celebration planned for fall 2025. (https://www.wsmv.com)

These developments indicate a growing economic landscape in Burns and the surrounding areas, offering new services and opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Why Consider Moving to Burns?

Burns, Tennessee, offers a harmonious blend of rural tranquility and accessibility to urban conveniences. Its strong sense of community, quality educational institutions, recreational opportunities, and proximity to Nashville make it an attractive option for individuals and families seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Whether you're drawn to the natural beauty of Montgomery Bell State Park, the friendly neighborhood atmosphere, Burns provides a welcoming environment to call home.