One of 10 barns nominated in the country
By Jeni Jewell
Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at 8:27 a.m.
Read more: Local, Fudala Barn, Bark River, Campbell's Soup, Contest
BARK RIVER -- It's home now only to a few birds and some old farm equipment.
But back when it was built more than a hundred years ago, it housed hay, cattle, horses and tractors.
The Fudala family has owned the barn since the late 60's.
"I love the barn because it's just so unique and it symbolizes the American farm", said part-owner, Barbara (Fudala) Atencio. "It's just part of our American Heritage."
The family hopes to return the barn to it's original condition, through the Campbell's soup, 'Help Grow Your Soup' contest.
It's one of ten finalists. Now the public will vote on their choice.
The top five barns will be restored. Click here to vote for the Fudula Barn.
John Jorasz who has farmed Fudala land and used the barn to store hay for twenty years, says the barn's hip-style roof isn't used anymore by farmers, making this barn a relic.
He says sadly many have been torn down.
"With Campbell's soup coming up with this barn revival project; it's kind of unique", said Jorasz, "that they see American history and they kind of want to do their part to preserve at least some of it."
If the barn is chosen the F.F.A. chapters in Stephenson, and Oconto will do the restoration work, keeping it local.
"The F.F.A.. would do a lot of painting and repairs, things like that", said Jorasz.
And if they win, Barbara Atencio and her family hope the restoration will inspire others to restore their aging barns.
"There are just so many barns that are being lost", she said. "And I hate to see that happen. When I found out about this contest, I was so excited."
Bark River - 12:21 p.m.
I just visited the barn in Bark River.
I found out that the barn is from the turn of the century, but still in pretty good shape.
If it wins the contest, it'll be restored to its original condition.
Check back later for another update after I talk to the family that owns the barn.
Newsroom - Negaunee - November 10
I'm headed to Bark River today to do a story on an old barn. It belongs to the Fudala sisters, and it's been nominated as one of ten barns in the country to get renovated through the Help Grow Your Own Soup contest through Campbell's Soup. It's also in conjunction with the Future Farmer's of America, or FFA.
It looks like a beautiful day to drive, and I'm hoping to see some deer.
