Times Examiner Facebook Logo

Friday, March 29, 2024 - 02:26 AM

INDEPENDENT CONSERVATIVE VOICE OF UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA

First Published in 1994

INDEPENDENT CONSERVATIVE VOICE OF
UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA

A beloved, historic building will receive a new life in the near future. The old Mule Barn in Starr, in the heart of Anderson County, will be rebuilt on the property next to The Bart Garrison Agricultural Museum of South Carolina.  This is an exciting project that has been several months in the making.

The Mule Barn Project is a concerted effort by Lake Hartwell Country and The Bart Garrison Agricultural Museum of South Carolina to preserve and protect the historic McGee Mule Barn from Starr, South Carolina.

“One of our missions at Lake Hartwell Country is preserving the past for future generations to enjoy,” says Les McCall, the Executive Director of Lake Hartwell Country.  “We are looking forward to showcasing the mastery of this structure to educate the public on a part of South Carolina’s agricultural history.”

The barn, built around the turn of the century, is significant historically and architecturally. Historically, the barn represents the peak of a thriving mule trade that impacted a great portion of Anderson County until the advent of tractors in post-world War II America. Architecturally, this post-and-beam structure represents a pinnacle of American barn building craftsmanship, with beautiful heart pine beams raised in a towering center aisle. The raised center aisle allowed the body heat from hundreds of mules to rise and escape in the summer months. A technology that makes the barn tolerable, humane, and aesthetically pleasing.

This project is possible due to the generosity of our donors. To help us continue making this a reality for generations to enjoy, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to the Mule Barn Project.  There are still multiple naming opportunities available.

For more information on how you can help please contact Nikki Saylors at 864-646-3782 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

No comments

Leave your comment

In reply to Some User