2019 4-H OLD BARN CONTEST

Sponsored by the McLean County Barn Keepers

Purpose of the contest: Tell the story of a McLean County Barn

Project Outline: Find an adult who has knowledge of a McLean County Barn built over 50 years ago. Interview that adult and others where possible to learn about the story of that barn.

Things you will want to include in your story:

Where the barn is located, or was located if the barn no longer exists.

When the barn was built? You may want to relate some historical events or references to determine the age.

Include pictures as it exists now, and if you can find some during the barn’s past add those.

Explain how the barn was used. Many old barns were built for one purpose, and the use of the barn changed over the years.

Name the family who lived there when it was built and any other families since then.

If possible draw a map of the inside spaces.

Relate any stories about things that happened in or around the barn or to the families who lived there.

Add any impressions you have about your research and interviews.

Make two copies of your project, one for your own records, and one for Barn Keepers to add to the permanent files of the McLean County History Museum.

Submit your story in a three-ring binder. Please put pictures in protective sleeves.

The story (without pictures) should be a minimum of 750 words, but no more than 2500, using a font no smaller than 10.

Why would you want to do this? Each entry will receive $20 and the top three will receive the following: 1st place $100, 2nd place $75, and 3rd place $50 (only one entry per 4-H member).

Selection Process: Submit your entry no later than July 1 to the McLean County Extension Office, 1615 Commerce Pkwy, Bloomington, IL 61704

The Barn Keepers will judge entries and decisions will be final. Please contact Ron Ropp with questions. He may be reached at rjroppbarn@gmail.com or 309-452-8534 (home) or 309-212-2456 (cell)