 |
 |
Sandusky County is the 88th County Barn Painted by Scott Hagan
commemorating the 200th anniversary of Ohio's Statehood.
About Our Barn
The barn was built in 1884.
How big is it?
The barn is constructed in the shape of a capital T, with the main section measuring 80 feet by 60 feet and the stem measuring 20 feet by 40 feet.
What is its history, including who built it and why they built it ?
It was constructed in 1884 on the Sandusky County Fairgrounds, shortly after the Agricultural Society purchased the property for a permanent home for the county fair. It is one of three original structures remaining on the fairgrounds. The building was designed by prominent local architects and constructed by German immigrants who settled in the area. Significant architectural features represent the Victorian era skills and craftsmanship.
Why did the Bicentennial Commission select the barn to represent Sandusky County and why did they wait to paint it last?
The local bicentennial groups selected the barn and the location. Since it was to be the Sandusky County barn, it represented all of the people of Sandusky County because it was at the fairgrounds.
The barn was in serious need of intervention to preserve it for the future. Many groups and individuals donated time, materials and money to lift the building, construct a permanent foundation, and seat the building on the new foundation before the logo was painted.
Midway through the project, then state bicentennial barn committee wanted to change barns. An appeal to the state bicentennial commission brought the focus back to the Historical Barn on the fairgrounds.
The committee chose this as the last barn because Connie Durdel, Sandusky County Visitors and Convention Bureau, requested them to identify it. The painting was completed during the 150th observance of the annual county fair. (not during the fair…)
The Ohio Bicentennial Commission has chosen the barn to be the last barn in Ohio painted with the Bicentennial Logo.
- It is the only barn located on a county fairgrounds.
- It is the only barn with the logo painted on the roof.
- It is the only barn with an Ohio Quarter included in the logo design.
Why did Scott Hagan paint the log on the roof instead of the side?
Artist Scott Hagan visited the grounds twice prior to painting the barn. He felt the roof would give a greater visibility to the logo.
What has the reaction been?
Local residents are proud of the logo painted on “their” barn. Even people who have moved away come to see the logo when they visit home. Many bring children or grandchildren to show them the barn and tell them about their memories in the barn. Tourists, or barn groupies, travel from over Ohio to see the barn.
What are the future plans for the barn?
The barn will be completed in 2003 in time for the fair. A key feature will be its handicapped accessibility. Exhibits could be displayed during the fair and the building will be available for rental during the remainder of the year.
