The Arcadia
Round Barn really is quite the sight to see. Located on Route 66 in the heart of
Arcadia, The Round Barn is one of our nation's unique landmarks. Built in 1898,
it originally served of course, as a home for livestock and also as a place
where dances were held for the local townspeople. As traffic slowly declined
down Old Route 66, the town of Arcadia declined with it and after suffering
decades of neglect, in 1988 the barn's immense 60' diameter roof finally
collapsed. The cost of repair: a staggering $165,000 dollars.
Knowing it would be no small feat, Luther "Luke" Robison (a retired building
contractor) had long admired the Round Barn and decided that he would save it
from utter ruin. He and the Over the Hill Gang, (a group of retirees)
volunteered their time, money and skill to the task. Together, they were able to
restore the barn over a period of four years for only $65,000 dollars! By
recruiting lots of volunteers, selling inscribed commemorative bricks, setting
up a roadside donation box and accepting donations of equipment and labor, the
enormous undertaking was accomplished.
It was for
this reason that in 1992, The National Preservation Honor Award was presented to
Mr. Robison and Arcadia's Historical Society Members for their "Outstanding
Craftsmanship and Perseverance" in the restoration of the historic 1898 Arcadia
Round Barn. The National Preservation Honor Award recognizes individuals and
organizations that demonstrate exceptional accomplishment in the preservation,
rehabilitation, restoration and interpretation of America's architectural and
cultural heritage.
As the only
truly "round" barn (most are actually hexagonal or octagonal), the Barn is 60'
in diameter, 45' in height and is two stories high. The upstairs loft has a
wooden floor and an architecturally impressive ceiling. The structure was
designed with the notion that being round would help it withstand Oklahoma's
tornado prone climate. Who knows if it is scientifically accurate, but the barn
is still standing after more than 107 years!!
The Arcadia
Historical Society is still actively recruiting members who would like to
contribute their time and ideas to preserving the legacy of the Round Barn for
future generations. They also are always grateful for any and all donations that
they receive which goes entirely to the improvement and upkeep of the Barn.