Iowa’s agricultural history is fascinating to explore, and one historic farm district showcases it in the coolest way. You can tour the Maasdam Barns and Evergreen Ridge Stock Farm historic district to see barns and structures that date back over a century.
Note: Currently, the barns are closed due to COVID-19, but this is certainly a bucket-list worthy history tour to plan for another time!
Fairfield, Iowa is a small agricultural town that’s famous for being home to the Maasden Barns and Evergreen Ridge Stock Farm.
Facebook / Official Maasden Barns
J. G. Maasdam owned the farm from 1910 until 1938 and Maasdam produced some of the world’s best-bred Percheron draft horses.
Google Local / Bill Doering
Today, you can even see a full-sized cutout of the largest horse Maasden ever bred.
Jefferson County Iowa
Throughout the years, Evergreen Ridge Stock Farm bough and sold a variety of draft horses, including Belgians. These horses were bred to be strong and stocky, and to work fields.
Jefferson County Iowa
Today, most modern draft horses, like the Percheron below, are lighter and used for sport, rather than field work. However, they still have the strength, independence, and work ethic of their ancestors.
K. Magaraci
The barns in the Evergreen historic district date back to 1906 and 1910, making them some of the oldest and best preserved buildings in the Hawkeye State.
Facebook / Official Maasden Barns
The Maasdam Barns Preservation Committee was formed in 2005, and in 2011, a Museum & Visitor Center opened in 2011. You can visit to see photos, artifacts and displays telling the story of the Evergreen Ridge Stock Farm Historic District.
Jefferson County Iowa
Touring the barns is an experience like no other! You’ll learn so much about Fairfield and Iowa history.
Facebook / Official Maasden Barns
In the early 1900’s, the Turney Family in Fairfield owned a wagon company called Charter Oak Wagons. When you tour the Maasdam Barns, you’ll be able to see an authentic Charter Oak for yourself!
Facebook / Official Maasden Barns
Plan a visit to the Maasdam Barns and you’ll discover a part of Iowa history that’s often overlooked. J.G. Maasdam and his Percherons had a lasting effect on the equine world and agricultural world from right here in small town Iowa.
Facebook / Official Maasden Barns
If you’d like to tour the Maadam Barns and Evergreen Ridge Stock Farm, plan your trip on the Jefferson County, Iowa website here.
Facebook / Official Maasden Barns
Google Local / Bill Doering
Jefferson County Iowa
K. Magaraci
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Address: Maasdam Barns, 2224 IA-1, Fairfield, IA 52556, USA
