This barn is the sole remaining example of its kind in America still used by the Shakers for agriculture, livestock, and hay storage. Our assessment revealed that the barn was in need of comprehensive multi-phase repairs. The rubble stone foundation and footings had been displaced from frost, endangering the structure. Some of the framing members were rotten, cracked, or deteriorated beyond use, and the exterior of the barn needed extensive repairs.

First, we lifted the main fame of the barn on steel and cribbing and then rebuilt the foundation supported by a frost-protected footer. This required careful dismantling and mapping of the rubble stone foundation and granite block walls, and rebuilding them around the entire barn. To mitigate future issues with water retention and erosion, we installed exterior and interior perimeter drainage.

With a solid foundation in place, we then focused on the framing and exterior. We installed steel tension connectors, made in situ scarf repairs to rotten posts, and replaced the rotten plates. For the main level, we replaced the damaged floor joists, leveled the floor, and replaced the flooring while ensuring it can handle a 50-ton hay load. On the exterior, we removed and reproduced the cornice trim and installed a new roof. We also replaced the cladding on both eaves with Eastern White Cedar shakes while repairing the cladding on the gables as needed. Finally, we restored all windows and doors.