2003 WAS “THE YEAR OF THE BARN” IN WISCONSIN
The statewide tour of the Smithsonian's Barn Again! Celebrating an American Icon began on January 31st and traveled through November 1st, 2003. Visitors to the exhibition discovered architectural models, photographs, popular culture objects, and period advertisements all about barns. In addition to the Smithsonian exhibition, an exhibition called Wisconsin Agricultural History and Barns designed by the Wisconsin Humanities Council told Wisconsin's unique story, a "family nook" provided hands-on activities for children, and locally produced exhibits and programs in the six hosting communities entertained and informed both residents and visitors from far and wide.
WAUSAUKEE (MARINETTE CO.)
From February 1 - March 9, "Barn Again! Celebrating an American Icon" was hosted by the School District of Wausaukee at the School District building. Thanks to everyone in Wausaukee who helped to kick off the tour and make the project a huge success.
LADYSMITH (RUSK CO.)
From March 14 - April 19, the exhibition was on view at the Rusk County Community Library in Ladysmith. The array of unique community events and continuing Barnstorm Wisconsin projects left a legacy of barn preservation in Rusk County. Thanks to everyone for all the hard work and enthusiasm!
BLANCHARDVILLE (LAFAYETTE CO.)
From April 26 - June 1, the Blanchardville Historical Society hosted the exhibition in a local timber frame, limestone foundation barn. Many thanks to Scott and Marla for their generous hospitality, and to the entire Blanchardville community for the outpouring of support for Barnstorm Wisconsin.
KEWAUNEE (KEWAUNEE CO.)
From June 6 – July 27, The Agricultural Heritage and Resources “Heritage Farm” hosted “Barn Again!” as part of their Farm Fest 2003 events. Visitors enjoyed the historical farmstead, as well as the petting zoo, wagon rides, and musical performances that highlighted the region’s unique agricultural history. Many thanks to the entire crew of volunteers, staff, and rural leaders who made it happen!
FARM TECHNOLOGY DAYS (FORMERLY CALLED FARM PROGRESS DAYS)
IN WAUPACA COUNTY
From July 15-17, ”Barn Again! Celebrating an American Icon” enjoyed center stage in the Dairy Technology Education Theme Tent, where visitors from all over Wisconsin had the opportunity to see it. Thanks to Farm Technology Days for their generous support and to the dedicated volunteers from the Waupaca Historical Society for helping us bring the Smithsonian to one of the best annual farm shows in the country.
OSCEOLA (POLK CO.)
From August 15 - September 21, The St. Croix ArtBarn brought “Barn Again! Celebrating an American Icon” to the St. Croix Valley, drawing visitors from all over the region, including neighboring Minnesota, to the renovated historic dairy barn for complimentary photography exhibitions and performances of original plays written and performed by Osceola community members. Thanks to everyone in Osceola who added their creative energy and hard work to this stellar show.
WASHBURN (BAYFIELD CO.)
From September 26 - November 1, It was sad to say goodbye, after over two years of planning and organizing, but the Smithsonian exhibition, “Barn Again! Celebrating an American Icon” left Wisconsin to return to Washington D.C. on November 1. The final stop on the tour, at the Washburn Historical Museum and Cultural Arts Center, was a wonderful conclusion to an amazing year! Visitors and residents of the northern Wisconsin community enjoyed barn dances, guest lectures, readings, workshops, special exhibitions, and many other festivities. The Wisconsin Humanities Council would like to thank all the dedicated people in Washburn who came together to celebrate life in rural Wisconsin as part of this project.