Number of Round Barns Remaining in the State

BACKGROUND

There is no scene that epitomizes the Wisconsin landscape more than that of a red wooden barn amidst a field of corn. Unfortunately, we are losing this landscape at a rapid pace. Round barns are an historic type of wooden dairy barn popular around the turn of the 20 th century. Though common on dairy farms throughout Wisconsin 100 years ago, round barns are rare images in the landscape today.

DATA/TRENDS

At the height of the round barn’s popularity, the State Historical Society of Wisconsin estimates about 180 round barns existed. In 1982, the number was down to 116. By 2000, 113 round barns remained.

Anecdotal information suggests that Wisconsinis losing over 400 of the wooden barns that characterize the landscape each year, but to date there has been no detailed comprehensive inventory.

Source: State Historical Society of Wisconsin