Here in Ohio, we have historic hidden gems scattered all throughout our beautiful state. From the country’s longest covered bridge to mushroom shaped homes, you never really know what sort of architecture you’ll stumble upon in the Buckeye State. Hiding in Freeport, Ohio, you’ll find a beautifully restored 16-sided barn that’s only one of three left in America. It’s a rare and beautiful treasure we’re lucky to have.
Constructed between 1916 - 1921 by John B. Stewart & Sons, this hidden gem in Harrison County is a one-of-a-kind and fully restored beauty.
Harrison County Visitors Center/Facebook Year-round, it’s a heartwarming sight to behold. Whether it’s snow covered, framed by fall foliage or surrounded by lush greenery, it’s undeniably beautiful.
The 16-sided barn is a rare type of building that dates back to the days of George Washington. The first U.S. President designed this type of barn in 1792.
Craig Fildes/Flickr The first 16-sided barn was constructed by skilled enslaved workers between 1792-1794. It featured two stories and was 52 feet in diameter.
Today, you can view a replica (pictured) of the first 16-sided barn at the historic Mount Vernon property, which is about 3 miles from the original location.
Tim Evanson/Flickr The unique design of the 16-sided barn helped to keep wheat from the rain and mud and prevent theft. Each of the barn’s two floors were only accessible from the outside.
The Harrison County 16-sided barn is one of only three left in the country. It stands 60 ft. high and 60 ft. across and features a 12-ft. silo going up through the middle.
Harrison County Visitors Center/Facebook The current owners welcome visitors, as the barn is a popular, historic landmark that both locals and visitors alike admire.
While you’re in town, take some time explore the nearby Skullfork Covered Bridge, quilt barns and other historic structures throughout the county.
Harrison County Visitors Center/Facebook For more information about the 16-sided barn and what you can expect to find in Harrison County, check out the Visit Harrison County website.
Have you ever seen this 16-sided barn before? Did you know how rare it was? Share your thoughts with us!
Harrison County Visitors Center/Facebook
Year-round, it’s a heartwarming sight to behold. Whether it’s snow covered, framed by fall foliage or surrounded by lush greenery, it’s undeniably beautiful.
Craig Fildes/Flickr
The first 16-sided barn was constructed by skilled enslaved workers between 1792-1794. It featured two stories and was 52 feet in diameter.
Tim Evanson/Flickr
The unique design of the 16-sided barn helped to keep wheat from the rain and mud and prevent theft. Each of the barn’s two floors were only accessible from the outside.
The current owners welcome visitors, as the barn is a popular, historic landmark that both locals and visitors alike admire.
For more information about the 16-sided barn and what you can expect to find in Harrison County, check out the Visit Harrison County website.
For more unique and historic structures in Ohio, check out our previous article: There’s A Fully Restored 1912 Post Office In Ohio And It Has Its Own Island.
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Address: 75440 Skull Fork Rd, Freeport, OH 43973, USA
