Just for fun, I’ve enclosed a few tib-bits of information about barns. A “did you know” feature. Did you know that the dictionary describes a barn as a building used chiefly for storing grain and hay and for housing farm animals or farm equipment? But they are so much more.
Most barns in early America were painted red. Did you know that farmers mixed skimmed milk, lime, and red iron oxide to make a red, plastic-like coating? The coating protected the wood and kept barns warmer in the winter. Although white paint commonly was applied to barns and houses, red paint remained popular on many farms because it was the most affordable.
We all know that selling products is done through advertising. TV commercials, newspaper ads, through the Internet and whatever social media has to offer. But did you know that back in the earlier days, advertising was done on barns? The farmer would not have stood for a billboard cluttering up his property, but he didn’t mind accepting a $1 a year for putting some empty space to good use.
Some barns were architecturally designed and carefully crafted. Some were influenced by various cultures and nationalities. But did you know, also in orientation to the sun and prevailing winds, as well as in accessibility and general efficiency? Pole barns. Dutch barn. Corn Crib. English gable. Gambrel Roof. Tobacco. Circular. Monitor. Prairie. Bank. Brick. Each had its own function. And simple devices such as trapdoors, ramps, sliding doors, hoists and chutes were added for efficiency.
The National Register of Historic Places has added the Cross Orchards historic barn and packing shed to its list of historic places. Located in Grand Junction, Colorado, it can be found on the Cross Orchards Historic Site, a living history museum. But many older historic barns are deteriorating and disappearing due to changing farm practices, urban development and the complexities of maintaining these unique structures. Did you know that The National Alliance is a nationwide, non-profit organization coordinating efforts to save America’s historic barns?
So, in your travels, keep an eye out for one of those buildings called a barn. You might find it on a hillside among other farm buildings or sitting regally among the trees. Or it may be found, forgotten and forlorn, along the highway or on a dusty country road. Stop and take a closer look. And if you really think about it, historically, they are the central feature of the farmstead...and...as American as apple pie!
Barbara Oliver, Author
Barbara & her husband, Mike traveled with their RV for about 30 years volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, building houses throughout the United States. My first story was written in junior high. Writing for traveling magazines....Highways, Trailer Life, RV Life, Escapees and Woodall's, as well as a local senior newspaper, the Beacon.
I like to sew, read, walking and cooking. Also love hanging out with family/grandkids and great grandchildren.
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