Round Barn Museum Plans Launched!
The Barelman Round Barn Community Based Learning Center becomes Reality
by Kirby Mousel
September 05, 2003
The Wakefield Heritage Organization is currently working, on architectural plans for the Barelman Round Barn Community Based Learning Center with Fernando Gomez, Architect from the M.A. C. Corporation out of Kansas City. Mr. Gomez has submitted a preliminary proposal to the group which may be seen with this article. The plans include a new wider foundation/base for the round barn to rest upon once brought to town. The new foundation will be the museum part, featuring Lefty Olson's Main Street Memorabilia collection, as well as other local items and community displays. As seen in the first image, the main entrance will be located on the lower level. A staircase is located on one side, and a handicap ramp on the other creating a circular walkway around the barn with a guard rail wall. The second image shows the ground floor plan. A double ring is created, with display cases mounted on the outer walls of the circular walkway. The center area on the inner ring will be a multi-functional classroom featuring overhead projection and internet connection. To one side of the ring will be the restroom and mechanical areas, built into the side hill and unseen from the outside.
Mr. Gomez is now currently developing an extensive proposal incorporating the Learning Center onto school property. A brochure is in the works, and will be shared with school administration, board members, the Olson family and potential grant donors. The Wakefield Heritage Organization has currently raised enough money to move the barn into town and make additional restoration repairs.
The new facility proposed is hoped to be embraced as a community learning center, being utilized by both community members and school organizations. Such an additional asset will serve as a learning tool to area residents of our rich cultural heritage, and as a local economic bolstering factor, creating tourism opportunities. This vision hinges on students and community members alike being a big part of this venture, not only as learners, but as teachers passing on knowledge with others about their community, its history and cultural diversity.
For more information on how you can get involved, please contact either Kirby Mousel, Jennifer Goos or Daryl Harrison at the school:,402-287-2012.
