“Some people might agree that the physical aspects of a barn possess spiritual qualities similar to those of a church. Indeed, while standing in a barn one does get a sense of quiet reverence as light filters through the narrow spaces of the boards.”
Mary Keithan, author, Michigan Heritage Barns
Jan Corey Arnett - The Barn Lady
This site has been created as a place where I can share my love for heritage barns. My collection of images, stories, and tidbits of information about barns just keeps growing and it seems a shame not to make it available to others who share this interest. There are a lot of you out there! I’ve even had the pleasure of getting acquainted with women from here in Michigan and at least three other states who share the moniker “Barn Lady.”
Information Sought on Heritage Barns
Barns are in peril as changes in agricultural practices and rampant development have rendered them obsolete or in the way. But a recent resurgence of respect for small-scale farming and some creative thinking prove that these grand old structures can be given brand new lives. They are becoming homes, offices, retail stores, veterinary clinics, conference centers, museums, and studios. Adapted, some barns can be used for the storage of today's large farm equipment. The tourism industry is finding that one of the attractions for visitors is the opportunity to photograph rural vistas and when barns are open as a part of an active farm or business, to get inside and experience their beauty.
The more that we can learn from one another, the more barns can be saved. With this foremost in mind, I am gathering material for a series of articles on the status of old barns (generally pre-1950). I’d like to hear from you via email or by good old-fashioned snail mail or telephone. Here are some questions to consider:
- Do you have a barn or want one?
- If you have a barn, is it being used? How? If it is not, why not? What do you know about its history?
- If you are seeking a barn, how would you use it? Why would you prefer a traditional wood-frame barn over other types of construction such as metal or plastic?
- What words of wisdom would you offer to others based on your experience?
Please take a few minutes to share your experience (and provide contact information). I very much look forward to hearing from you. Thank you very much!
Barn for Sale
My husband and I rescued this century-old English barn a few years ago. It was dismantled in 2008 and put it in safe storage. Our intent was to make it our home but a number of circumstances have altered those plans. The pegged frame is sawn pine and is largely intact and in excellent condition. Full supports under the three bays are intact. About half of the siding has been saved as has much of the split fieldstone foundation. The barn measures 32 by 44. Much of the hardware, pegs, and hay carrier have been saved.
Our design for the barnhouse called for a large mudroom between the house and a two-car garage. The buyer of the frame has the option to purchase the engineer-approved house plans customized to retain the look and character of a barn. For more information, please contact us at 269-589-6893.
Barns Barns Barns
Barn organizations have taken hold in many counties, regions, states, and at the national level. Some are concerned with the documentation of all heritage barns in their area. Others focus on a particular type of ethnic barn or identify the locations of barns bearing murals or advertising such as the famous Warrick “Mail Pouch” barns. Some have ‘barn’ in their title or are part of a historical society. And fortunately, a few are professional and creative enough to have built endowments, make grants, and network effectively with kindred groups. If there isn’t a barn organization in your area, start one! Just remember to drop the “E” from EGO so everyone can GO confidently forward working together!
