Concerning the subject of old barns, the world is pretty much divided into two groups of people. I've learned this over the years, driving down county highways and country roads, whenever I'd spy an old barn and slam on my brakes (as gently as possible) to take in the view, or take a photograph. Inevitably, these sudden stops will elicit one of two familiar reactions, depending on who may be in the car with me at the time. The folks who enjoy such things, are as eager as I am to do a little admiring. The folks who do not.....typically think I've lost my mind. While that could very well be true, I believe the difference possibly has more to do with the gift of "seeing" and "feeling" things past. For those who haven't been blessed with this gift, staring at a falling down cow barn must seem a strange way to spend a few minutes. But, for those who have, it's a glorious opportunity to spend some magical time in a long-forgotten past. No time machine necessary.....just a love of times gone by and the smallest spark of imagination. If you've made your way to this page, you have probably been blessed with such.
Welcome to the past.....and a lovely way to spend a few minutes. Nancy
Sear & Roebuck's catalog sold almost everything that rural America required, including houses and barns. The barns, sold as kits, included all necessary materials and could be customized for size by adding increments of length and width. The Green Barn was transported by rail to the closest depot and then by horse and wagon to the site.
In 1911, Sears estimated that a fair price for on-site labor and foundation concrete block would result in a total cost of $775.00. A bargain, I would say, considering that somke of those barns remain standing today.
A great place to visit: The Barn Journal
