Wedding Dream: Save Our Barn

When my parents first bought this property 34 years ago, they dreamed of restoring this 1840's barn. And when Andrew asked if I would marry him, I dreamed of getting married in it. 

(Andrew, my fiance, and me on the day he proposed!)

(Andrew and I at his senior prom)

The barn was a staple of my childhood. My brothers and I would swing on the rope inside and visit our horse, an ex-race horse my parents rescued. Both my parents have pointed out the many aspects of the barn that show its history, such as the handmade nails, the axe marks on the beams, and the wooden pins that keep everything together. 

This barn is incredibly important to my family due to its history. It's been around since the very beginning of Michigan's statehood and has stood against the tests of time. As its caretakers,  we do not want to be the reason this historical building is lost forever. 
(photo from 1925. Barn is on the far right with the open door)

Over the barn's 180 year-old life, it's fallen into some disrepair. Like most barns from this era (those still standing), wood has rotted away and the barn is leaning. The barn needs to be straightened and a new foundation put in. 

Estimates from contractors for repairs have ranged from $48k to $65k. This is impossible for my parents and Andrew and I, as they are about to retire and my fiance and I are about to start our lives.

Originally, we approached the township to share the barn with the community and generate revenue for the repairs. We were completely devastated when the proposal was rejected, so we're taking matters into our own hands. 

We have lost all hope of hiring a contractor and instead are going to attempt to repair the barn ourselves. Despite all of the craziness  happening in the world right now and all the roadblocks we've met, we're going to try to make this right.

My parents have worked hard their whole lives and know very well that sometimes if you want something done, you have to do it yourself. Through both family and friends, we have the know-how and dedication to get this job done. 

The funds needed are for the materials and equipment required to lift the barn, level it, and put in a new floor. 

For my parents, it has been a lifelong dream to repair this historical barn and to keep it standing for another 100 years. For Andrew and I, this barn is the perfect place for our families to meet for our union. An honest and humble venue based on family values, which represents us as a couple. And for me, this barn will always hold a special place in my heart.

Please help us save our barn!