The historic Round Barn in Grand Isle, a unique and rare structure with a long-standing history as subsidized low-income housing for seniors, is facing an uncertain future. Developers are exploring options to relocate the housing and repurpose the 122-year-old barn, which has fallen into disrepair over the years.
A Senior Developer at Evernorth, Jess Neubelt, expressed concerns about the deteriorating state of the barn, highlighting the need for costly renovations that would make it unsustainable to maintain as housing. Despite its listing in the state register, the barn was deemed ineligible for the National Register of Historic Places, raising fears among local residents about the possibility of demolition.
Neubelt and Cathedral Square, in collaboration with Evernorth, are considering moving the barn to another property in Grand Isle and replacing the existing 16 units with a new two-story building on the same site. An additional six units in an annex would undergo renovations. The developers plan to retain 22 units to accommodate current residents, aiming to offer more efficient, accessible, and environmentally sustainable housing solutions.
Structural issues, including a leaning central silo and fire hazards, further complicate the preservation efforts for the Round Barn. While the developers are working on a new building design and renovation plans, members of the Grand Isle Historical Society are advocating for the barn’s preservation, recognizing its significance as a rare American artifact and a testament to historical agricultural vernacular architecture.
National round barn expert John Hanou has joined the conversation, emphasizing the unique features of the Grand Isle barn, such as its pitched gambrel and slate roof, setting it apart from other round barns. Hanou’s research sheds light on the barn’s history, tracing back to its construction in 1903 by Major Alexander H. Davis and farm manager Edward J. Parker, both prominent figures in Grand Isle at the time.
Despite concerns from the community and preservation advocates, developers aim to create a permanent affordable housing community that prioritizes the well-being and comfort of residents. Plans are underway to finalize the design and cost of the project by the end of the year, with construction expected to begin in 2026 and completion slated for spring 2027. The focus remains on minimizing disruption for residents and ensuring a smooth transition to improved housing options.
As the fate of the Round Barn in Grand Isle hangs in the balance, the collaborative efforts of developers, preservationists, and community members underscore the challenges and opportunities in preserving historical landmarks while meeting the evolving needs of local residents. By balancing preservation with modernization, stakeholders hope to create a sustainable and inclusive community that honors the past while embracing the future.
