Originally built in 1837, Grandfather’s Barn is the only remaining building from the farmstead existing when the land was purchased by the Fair in 1886.

Grandfather’s Barn was closed in 1989 due to dangerous amounts of deterioration, but thanks to a generous $100,000 donation from Vermeer Manufacturing of Pella, the building was reopened on the first day of the 1994 Iowa State Fair.

Renovations were completed by Barn Renovators, Inc. of Winterset and included rebuilding the foundation and batten boards, leveling, re-roofing, painting, and repairing stairs, doors, and windows.

A new bridge was built leading to the barn.	Replacement of the foundation was necessary to ensure the safety of future visitors.

Rotting boards and peeling paint before the building was renovated.

Check back for updates on our current Iowa State Fair renovation and preservation efforts, or call 1-800-450-3732 to find out how you can get involved.