What would barns have to tell us, if barns could talk? To find out, join us for this virtual edition of Community Connections with Rich Tyler.
What would barns have to tell us, if barns could talk? To find out, join us for this virtual edition of Community Connections with Rich Tyler.
Old barns are more than just solid functional buildings. They represent the soul of our farming heritage and perhaps more! What is a barn, architecturally and emotionally? Barn design was based on experience, needs and ambition. Their function indicated both the farm operation and the farmer’s personal touch. Barn construction was a community affair comprised of hard work, huge meals and a barn dance. Few of us today have the products of our labor on display for all to see, appreciate and criticize. But what’s happening to our old barns? Will metal replace wood? Can we smell and touch the metal in the same fashion? What does our interest in barns tell us about ourselves? Why should we care about old barns today? These and other questions will be discussed as the history and current importance of barns are explored.
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 will take place virtually via GoToMeeting. Admission is free, however, advance registration is required to receive an invitation and password to join the event.
This program is sponsored by Humanities Iowa and the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library.
The Bettendorf Public Library has served the community of Bettendorf since July 12, 1955. We offer Library events for all ages, and our meeting rooms are available for public use. See more information about our meeting room policy at http://www.bettendorflibrary.com/services/meeting-rooms/.