Bruce Springsteen | Source: Getty Images
Bruce Springsteen’s career has taken him to stages worldwide, but his heart has always remained in New Jersey. Long before he bought his sprawling farm, Bruce dreamed of owning the land one day. In the early 1990s, that dream became a reality when he and Patti Scialfa made the 400-acre estate their home.
Bruce Springsteen at his home in Colts Neck, New Jersey on September 26, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
The couple’s connection to their farm goes beyond having a place to live. The farm now reflects their values: family, nature, and the simple life away from the constant buzz of fame. The family’s love for animals, their children’s unique paths, and Patti’s health journey have all shaped the story of their home.
Patti Scialfa and Bruce Springsteen perform at the “Jersey 4 Jersey” broadcast fundraiser to fight the impact of COVID-19 on April 22, 2020. | Source: Getty Images
A Dream Long in the Making – Bruce’s Journey to Owning the Farm
Bruce’s connection to his Colts Neck farm began long before he owned it. In his autobiography, “Born to Run,” the singer recalls how, in his 30s, he would often bike past the picturesque property, admiring its lush lawns and peaceful surroundings.
Bruce Springsteen, circa 1987 | Source: Getty Images
Even then, he harbored a quiet desire to one day make it his own. “I’d always wanted some land near my hometown,” he wrote, reflecting on the times he’d envisioned owning the farm as he rode by.
The farm, owned by an artist, remained a dream for years until it came up for sale in the 1990s. By then, Bruce and his wife, Patti, had started their family, and the timing was finally right. After looking at the property for a long time, they decided to purchase it.
Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa seen on January 17, 1990 | Source: Getty Images
The estate’s wide-open spaces and tranquil setting were exactly what they needed — a sanctuary where they could raise a family and enjoy the peaceful side of life.
Bruce Springsteen showing his farm to “CBS This Morning” co-host Gayle King, dated October 25, 2019 | YouTube/@CBSMornings
A Family Affair – Life with Patti and Their Three Kids
For Bruce and Patti, the farm has always been more than a quiet retreat; it’s where they raised their three children, Evan, Jessica, and Samuel.
The Springsteen kids grew up relatively shielded from their parents’ fame.
Bruce and Patti consciously kept their family life grounded, allowing their kids to carve out their own identities away from the public eye. Though their father is one of the biggest names in rock music, Evan, Jessica, and Samuel showed little interest in his career while growing up.
Sam Springsteen, Patti Scialfa, Evan, Bruce, and Jessica Springsteen pose backstage at The Eugene O’Neill Theater on August 8, 2008 | Source: Getty Images
As Bruce once shared, “They had their own musical heroes,” and would often be unfazed when someone mentioned one of his songs. This sense of normalcy was vital to Bruce and Patti, who wanted their children to feel free to pursue their own passions.
Thankfully, their kids followed their hearts. Jessica, in particular, found her calling in the equestrian world, often returning to the family farm to ride and tend to the horses in their expansive stables.
For the Springsteen family, the farm became a place where they came together to enjoy life’s simple pleasures and create lasting memories.
The Farm – A Haven for Animals, Equestrian Life, and Music
Apart from the Springsteen farm being a retreat for their family, it is a thriving animal haven. From horses and pigs to a peacock,
the farm is teeming with life, adding to the charm and tranquility of their country home.
The Springsteen’s peacock, dated October 11, 2018 | YouTube/@60MinutesAU
The Springsteen’s pigs, dated October 25, 2019 | YouTube/@CBSMornings
The family’s love for animals is evident, especially in their dedication to equestrian life. The farm’s stables are home to numerous horses, providing Jessica with plenty of space to practice and enjoy her passion.
Bruce Springsteen showing his farm to “CBS This Morning” co-host Gayle King, dated October 25, 2019 | YouTube/@CBSMornings
Jessica frequently shares glimpses of her riding sessions, capturing the beauty of the property’s rolling fields and vibrant autumn colors. It’s not just Jessica who enjoys the horses — her parents also share this love, often riding together through the well-trodden trails and paths that wind through their estate.
Beyond the stables and fields, the farm also houses a creative sanctuary for Bruce. In his home recording studio, nestled within the property, Bruce has worked on many projects over the years.
Bruce Springsteen’s New Jersey recording studio, dated October 25, 2019 | Source: YouTube/@CBSMornings
Bruce Springsteen in his New Jersey recording studio, dated October 25, 2019 | Source: YouTube/@CBSMornings
Bruce Springsteen with “CBS This Morning” co-host Gayle King in his New Jersey recording studio, dated October 25, 2019 | Source: YouTube/@CBSMornings
The studio allows him to combine his love of music with the serenity of his surroundings. This personal space has been the birthplace of new songs and ideas, offering Bruce a quiet retreat to focus on his craft.
The farm is located in one of New Jersey’s most desirable and luxurious areas. Colts Neck is known for its equestrian facilities, expansive orchards, and stunning mansions.
Patti’s Battle with Cancer – Finding Strength Through Struggles
Behind the peaceful facade of life on the farm, the Springsteen family has faced significant challenges, particularly with
Patti’s health. In 2018, Patti was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer.
Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa attend the 72nd Annual Tony Awards on June 10, 2018 | Source: Getty Images
This battle, which she kept private for many years, has taken a toll on her physically and emotionally. Patti, a beloved member of Bruce’s E Street Band, has sometimes found it difficult to perform, as she revealed in the documentary “Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band.”
Patti Scialfa performs on stage on June 28, 1988 | Source: Getty Images
Despite these hardships, Patti has remained brave and strong. She continues to support her family and finds comfort in the serenity of the farm. The peaceful environment has likely played a role in helping her cope with the physical demands of her illness, offering a place of quiet reflection and healing.
Patti Scialfa and Bruce Springsteen at the 81st Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 7, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Bruce has remained by her side through it all, and together, they have faced this battle with the same strength that has defined
their relationship over the decades. For Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa, their 400-acre farm is more than just a beautiful piece of land. It’s the heart of their family’s story.
Evan Springsteen, Patti Scialfa, Bruce, Jessica, and Sam Springsteen pose at Radio City Music Hall on June 10, 2018 | Source: Getty Images
Over the years, it has been a place where they’ve raised their children, nurtured their love for animals, and weathered personal challenges, including Patti’s battle with cancer.
Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa perform at St. James Theatre on June 26, 2021 | Source: Getty Images
The farm stands as a symbol of their resilience and commitment to living a life grounded in simplicity and nature despite the fame that surrounds them. Now, with their children all grown up and pursuing their careers, the farm is still a refuge.
Bruce Springsteen showing his farm to “CBS This Morning” co-host Gayle King, dated October 25, 2019 | YouTube/@CBSMornings
Whether it’s Jessica returning to ride horses or Bruce and Patti finding peace in the tranquility of their home, the farm remains central to their lives. It’s a place where bonds are strengthened, and the Springsteen family can enjoy the quiet joys of life away from the spotlight.