A Pennsylvania Barn’s Journey to National Landmark Status
A historic barn in Pennsylvania, representing a unique style of agricultural architecture, has recently been recognized as a national landmark. The barn, a testament to the state’s rich farming heritage, embodies key features characteristic of Pennsylvania barns, including a distinctive cantilevered “forebay” – an overhanging structure – according to the Pennsylvania Agricultural History Project.
The recognition highlights the enduring significance of these structures, which played a vital role in the state’s agricultural past. Pennsylvania barns aren’t simply buildings; they are physical manifestations of evolving farming practices and the ingenuity of generations of builders.
The Pennsylvania Barn, as described by the Pennsylvania Historic Preservation, is a unique structure with a long history. Examples of these barns date back to at least 1787, with another example documented from 1837. The barns often showcase a blend of construction techniques, utilizing materials like log, stone, brick, and timber-frame construction.
Recent tours, such as the one sponsored by the Historic Barn and Farm Foundation (HBFF) in 2023, have focused on showcasing the diversity and historical context of Pennsylvania barns. The 2023 HBFF tour, held in Cumberland County, centered on the theme of “The Agriculture Reform Movement and Barn Building.” The tour’s guidebook, a comprehensive 75-page document, detailed the influence of the 19th-century agricultural reform movement on barn design and construction within the county.
The tour featured both Schweitzer and Standard Pennsylvania type barns, built between 1839, and 1935. One particularly well-preserved example was the c. 1868 McKeehan-Baish timber-frame Standard Pennsylvania barn, located in the fertile limestone land of central Cumberland Valley. This barn exemplifies the enduring quality and architectural integrity of these historic structures.
Frederick Watts, a county native, was a leading figure in the agricultural reform movement, both within Cumberland County and statewide. Watts’ tri-gable barn design, published in 1864, became a model for other progressive farmers seeking to improve the efficiency of their operations. The design prioritized ease of work for the farmer, reflecting a commitment to practical innovation.
The preservation of these barns is not merely about maintaining old buildings; it’s about safeguarding a tangible link to the past. Organizations like the HBFF play a crucial role in raising awareness about the importance of barn preservation and providing resources for restoration efforts. The foundation also offers grant opportunities to support barn owners in their preservation endeavors.
The McKeehan-Baish barn, highlighted on the 2023 tour, stands as a “nearly pristine example” of a Standard Pennsylvania barn. Its condition offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship and agricultural practices of a bygone era. The barn’s preservation ensures that future generations can appreciate the legacy of Pennsylvania’s farming heritage.
The ongoing efforts to document, preserve, and celebrate Pennsylvania barns underscore their enduring cultural and historical value. These structures are not just relics of the past; they are living reminders of the people who shaped the state’s agricultural landscape and the innovations that drove its progress.
