"Watson Homestead is to be a place for rest, relaxation and convalescence for pastors." Thomas Watson Sr.

When Thomas Watson Sr., the long-time CEO of IBM founded the Watson Homestead Conference and Retreat Center in 1957 he described in his “Declaration of Trust” that his homestead would serve as a “place of relaxation and convalescence for ministers…”.  Mr. Watson obviously had a vision for the needs of pastors and their churches. We have taken that vision to heart and offer pastors of all denominations and faiths the opportunity to find “relaxation and convalescence as “Tom’s guest”.

When we started this project in 2000 we had no idea how significant it would be in the lives of pastors, their families, and their churches.  We have served over 80 pastors each year from many denominations and a wide variety of faiths.  We offer 2-3 day retreats for pastors and members of their immediate family.  In Mark 6:31, Jesus said to the apostles, “Come away to a quiet place all by yourselves and rest a while”.  He knew the demands that affect the lives of pastors and their families.  So while Watson Homestead is rarely quiet, it does have a lot of “quiet spaces” where a pastor can find solitude, serenity, and rest.

We welcome pastors to use the on-line registration form to schedule a personal retreat.  Please understand that scheduling is based on a space available basis.

We look forward to serving you.