Join us in returning the Poor Farm Barn to community service!
A well-known historic structure, the Poor Farm Barn hasn’t been used for farming since the 1960s, but it still has a future!
The beauty of this building and the setting is remarkable. Here you will find a large open space against a backdrop of forested hills. The big Row-by-Row vegetable garden continues to serve people in need. And, just across the street is Leelanau County’s Myles Kimmerly Park.
With the help of volunteers, donors, and local businesses, LCHPS has stabilized and strengthened this historic structure. We continue to make minor repairs while beginning a new effort to re-purpose this beautiful old barn.
To make the Barn and surroundings safe, secure, and useful for community activities, we must make a few key improvements that do not change the character of the historic barn. First, we need to make secure pathways to approach the barn and create two new, safe entryways. Next, we need to install electrical wiring, indoor lighting and safety features like exit lights. Last, we need to construct a small building next to the barn to house bathroom facilities.
With your help, the Poor Farm Barn will once again give back to the community as a place for public events and gatherings, cultural arts and music, and history education.
Capital Campaign
We are seeking donations to pay for people-friendly improvements to the Poor Farm Barn. These improvements are necessary to support community use of the barn and surrounding area. The planned improvements include: pathways to the barn, two new doorways, indoor lighting and electrical services, building safety features, and a small building near the barn to house restroom facilities.
Mail Donations to:
LCHPS, PO. Box 331, Empire, Michigan 49630.
Please include your name/s and contact information including full address, phone, and email address.