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Ryan's Historic Round Barn: A Testament to Agricultural Innovation

Discover Ryan's Historic Round Barn: An architectural gem showcasing early 20th-century agricultural innovation in a beautiful rural setting.

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Ryan's Historic Round Barn, located near Kewanee, Illinois, is one of the largest and most impressive round barns in the United States. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, a Chicago brain surgeon, it stands as a unique example of early 20th-century agricultural design and is a reminder of the region's rich farming heritage.

A brief summary to Ryan's Historic Round Barn

Local tips

  • Check the Ryan's Historic Round Barn Facebook page for seasonal hours and tour information.
  • Explore the Johnson Sauk Trail State Park, where the barn is located, for hiking trails and outdoor activities.
  • Visit nearby Kewanee for local dining and other attractions.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Ryan's Historic Round Barn is located within Johnson Sauk Trail State Park, a few miles north of Kewanee, Illinois. From Kewanee, head north on IL-78. Turn east onto N 1200th Ave. The barn will be on your right. Parking is available near the barn. There are no tolls or parking fees.

  • Walking

    If you are already within Johnson Sauk Trail State Park, follow the park's internal roads and trails to Ryan's Historic Round Barn. The barn is a prominent landmark within the park. Check the park map for specific trail routes. There are no additional costs.

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Discover more about Ryan's Historic Round Barn

Ryan's Historic Round Barn, situated in Johnson Sauk Trail State Park, is an architectural marvel dating back to 1910. Dr. Laurence Ryan, a Chicago-based brain surgeon with roots in Kewanee, commissioned the barn as part of his 320-acre retreat for raising Black Angus cattle. The barn's circular design, inspired by Shaker round barns, was intended to efficiently house, feed, and groom his prized cattle under one roof. The barn itself is an impressive structure, boasting a height of over 80 feet and a diameter of 85 feet. Its construction features horizontally laid white pine, soaked to increase pliability, and a central silo capable of holding 450 tons of corn. The interior comprises three and a half levels, showcasing a design that eliminates the need for internal support beams. A network of steel tracks facilitated hay distribution and manure removal, further exemplifying the barn's innovative design. Over the years, Ryan's Round Barn has become a symbol of agricultural history and ingenuity. It was the first round barn in Illinois to be added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Today, visitors can explore the barn and admire its unique architecture and learn about its history. The barn also features a display of antique farm machinery and implements, offering a glimpse into the past.

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