"When You See the Big Red Barn..."

Barn Preservation Resources

  • The Barn Journal
    The Barn Journal is the first web site with general information about barns and traditional farm architecture. It is a reader-supported site and depends on the submissions of enthusiasts to add more and better content.

  • Michigan Barn Preservation Network
    The Michigan Barn Preservation Network or its website, can provide you with a hard copy or online directory of barn contractors but does not provide recommendations.

  • Wisconsin Barn Preservation Program
    The University of Wisconsin-Extension, along with the Wisconsin Historical Society, are spearheading a multifaceted approach aimed at saving many of Wisconsin's historic agricultural buildings.

  • Iowa Barn Foundation
    Founded in 1997, the Iowa Barn Foundation is dedicated to preserving Iowa’s rural buildings, symbols of Iowa's early heritage. The Iowa Barn Foundation is an Iowa non-profit corporation with tax-exempt status under paragraph 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

  • National Barn Alliance
    The National Barn Alliance is a nation-wide, non-profit organization coordinating efforts to save America’s Historic Barns. Their members are farmers and city dwellers, students, historical groups, timber framers, and lots of people who just love Barns.

A New Life

For many years after the cattle no longer came inside for morning and evening milking, this barn, not too far from where I grew up, collected only raccoons and troublesome trees that threatened to destroy its roof and foundation. But on a trip "back home" a couple of years ago, it was a treat to discover that it had been rescued and is enjoying new life!