Barns of Carlton County: Preserving Our Agricultural History
Updated: 2 days ago
Carlton County's barns are more than old farm buildings. They reflect the agricultural roots of our communities and tell stories of the families, farms, and rural traditions that helped shape the county. Through the Barns of Carlton County project, the Carlton County Historical Society is documenting these historic structures and preserving their stories for future generations.
Our Barns Are Our History
More than 300 Carlton County barns have been photographed and their histories collected through this volunteer-led project. Each photograph and piece of historical information helps build a record of the county's agricultural past.
The project began in 2015, when local barn research inspired the formation of a volunteer committee dedicated to creating a photographic record of Carlton County's barns. The first Barns of Carlton County calendar was published in 2017, turning the committee's work into an annual tradition that celebrates local history.
Explore the Barns Online
Discover more of Carlton County's agricultural history through our online exhibit, featuring the barns and stories documented by the project. You can also enjoy this slideshow of historic barns from across the county.
Help Us Preserve More Barn Stories
There are still many barns throughout Carlton County waiting to be documented. We welcome volunteers who are interested in researching barns and farm properties, gathering historical information, and photographing historic agricultural buildings.
Do you own a historic barn, have photographs to share, or know the history of a local farm? Your knowledge can help us preserve stories that might otherwise be lost. We especially welcome information about barns that have not yet been photographed.
Contact Carlton County Historical Society to share information or learn how you can get involved.
Get Your Barns of Carlton County Calendar
Celebrate local history with the annual Barns of Carlton County calendar! Calendars are available at the CCHS building and these local businesses:
Cloquet: B&B Market, Cloquet Natural Foods Store, Pine Knot News
Esko: Widdes Feed and Farm Supply
Mahtowa: TJ's Market
Moose Lake: Joe Jitters, Lakeside Traders, Moose Lake Implement, Moose Lake Feed Store
Wrenshall: Wrenshall General Store
You can also order your calendar online.
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