Why Save an Old Barn?

Why save an old barn? Should we let them fall down? What is the real value of preserving our past? Join Rich Tyler for a presentation on the restoration of The Secrest 1883 Octagonal Barn. He will share the story of how individuals and organizations rallied around Iowa farm history, to contribute to the saving of this barn. The barn is open to the public, and photographers, artists and school children have all played an important role. How can you save your barn? What will they mean to future generations who grow up without them?

Rich Tyler has been restoring the Secrest farmstead and octagonal barn near West Branch. He has researched the history behind the property, including the golden age of farming, the Depression and the architecture of barns. Rich is a Professor in the Departments of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery and Speech Pathology and Audiology at the University of Iowa.

This program has been funded by Humanities Iowa, a private non-profit, and the State Historical Society, INC. A cultural resource for Iowans since 1971, Humanities Iowa brings humanities programs into the heart of Iowa communities.