This is one of six known barns of this style located within about a 30-mile radius in Southeast Georgia. As a group, they are a significant vernacular resource among agricultural structures in the Coastal Plain. They were likely copied from memory or inspired by patterns seen in plan books but their prevalence in such a small geographical area is more than coincidence. Since the best known barn, at the old Coleman Farm, is known locally as the “Big Barn” and even has a road named for it, I’m calling these all “Big Barns”, even though the two at the Brinson farm are much smaller versions. All the barns, except for a garage barn at the Coleman Farm (now lost), are hay/stock barns and are characterized by ornamental trellis work. This one seems to be the most vulnerable. I’m sharing the other examples below.
“Big Barns” of Southeast Georgia
I am restoring an old barn in Oglethorpe County Georgia. Saved it from demolition since my heart couldn’t bear to see its history disappear. I want to save them all. Check it out on my project page. The update section has pics of it transformation so far. Gf.me/u/x8h8tj.
Oh gosh. These are so beautiful. Thank you for documenting them. I’ve been driving monthly between ATL and St. George Island. I’ve watched 2 gorgeous tobacco barns collapse. It so breaks my heart. I cannot thank you enough for what you are documenting. Lee Sewell
404-432-9130
These barns are spectacular. The most extraordinary barn I’ve ever seen is on Sapelo Island on the grounds of the old Chocolate Plantation. It is constructed of tabby and oak, I believe. You should really go there and photograph it.
Penny, the Chocolate barn should be on this website now. I love that area of Sapelo.