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Inspiration

A Day Well Spent on the Connecticut Barns Trail

Our CT Ambassador, Deb Cohen of The Front Door Project, recently took a ride on the Connecticut Barns Trail, established by the Preservation Connecticut. She visited key sights around Connecticut’s northeast region on her way to check out some of the most scenic and historic barns in the state.

About the Connecticut Barns Trail

Depending on where you live or visit in our great small state of Connecticut you would never guess that our early history was heavily based on agriculture. Farms dotted the landscape all over the state and were a primary source of income for many residents until the middle of the 19th century when other forms of industry in Connecticut began to overtake agriculture resulting in the continuous decrease of the number of farms across the state.

With the decline of Connecticut farming came the decline of a New England icon, the barn. While other New England icons may seem more obvious (lighthouses, covered bridges, and lobster come to mind) it is hard to imagine a New England landscape without a barn in the scene. Many of Connecticut’s barns have already been lost, and others suffer from demolition by neglect.

Like other forms of architecture, barns like this one in Woodstock (above) are a visual representation of our history. From the most humble post and beam construction to an architect designed gentleman’s barn, and everything in between, barns help to tell our Connecticut story. With this in mind, the Preservation Connecticut set out to create an inventory of barns throughout the state.

In Conclusion

I can’t recall a more delightful day than the one I spent traveling The Quiet Corner portion of the Connecticut Barns Trail. The changing scenery alone was worth the trip, but it was made even better with the punctuation of stops along the way. It is encouraging to see that farming is increasing in popularity across the state once again, with old barns being restored and repurposed, or even some new ones being constructed.

 

The Front Door Project

Deb Cohen is a lifelong Connecticut resident with a passion for architecture, history, and local travel. She also believes that a good front door adds instant curb appeal and is a focal point of a home, and through her photography provides inspiration for others to create the curb appeal of their dreams. When she isn't busy traveling, taking pictures, or writing, she keeps busy with family, friends, and her two beautiful golden retriever rescue dogs. To see more of Deb's work, visit www.thefrontdoorproject.com or find her on Instagram @thefrontdoorproject.

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