Gerald Harbach Round Barn, Eleroy Illinois

Date added: April 29, 2023
Looking northeast (1983)

This barn has a 55-foot diameter, a poured concrete foundation, and a west entrance on ground level. The animal entrance on the southeast quadrant has been permanently closed with a wooden gate. Drop siding covered with asphalt sheets now encloses the barn. Access to the loft is through a rectangular opening in the loft floor above the west entrance. The barn is braced against the wind by members arranged diagonally between the studs in the loft. The Single-hip roof is braced at each rafter by a member nailed approximately four feet above the roof hip and to the opposite side of the rafter about four feet below the roof hip. The roof is covered with asphalt shingles and is capped with a squat cupola.

This is the most altered barn in the nomination. The two concentric loft pias have been replaced by steel I-beams supported by steel jacks and, because the structure is relegated to storage, the animal access is blocked by a jerried gate. Except for needed roofing, however, the barn is in good condition.

The characteristics summarized above suggest that the Harbach Barn was built by the Shaffer-Haas team at about the same time as the Fehr and Bruce Barns, although the specific construction date and builder's name are unknown.

Gerald Harbach Round Barn, Eleroy Illinois Looking northeast (1983)
Looking northeast (1983)

Gerald Harbach Round Barn, Eleroy Illinois Trusses at roof hip (1983)
Trusses at roof hip (1983)

Gerald Harbach Round Barn, Eleroy Illinois Plate at eaves & pattern for shingle nailers (1983)
Plate at eaves & pattern for shingle nailers (1983)