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Why round?
When William Harrison Odor built his barn in 1898, he selected the unusual shape because it was thought to be more resistant to severe weather - specifically, tornadoes! It is the earliest known round barn in Oklahoma.
Undated Round Barn Early PhotoOklahoma Route 66 Association
Before statehood
Built near the Odor home, the native burr oak planks were soaked in the nearby Deep Fork River to make them pliable so they could be bent into shape.
Work and play
The loft of the barn was not just used for storage: it was often the site of local gatherings and dances. Popular musicians like Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys added Arcadia's Round Barn to their schedules. The livestock on the first floor sang along as locals danced above.
US Route 66 and the Round BarnOklahoma Route 66 Association
US Highway 66
Nearly 30 years after the barn was built, a new highway connecting Chicago to Los Angeles was designated. It went right by Arcadia's iconic red barn.
Braced BarnOklahoma Route 66 Association
The years go by...
As the nature of travel and agricultural practices evolved over the 20th century, the barn fell into disrepair. The structure was weakened by modifications and it began to lean; shoring was added in the 1970s.
Dilapidated BarnOklahoma Route 66 Association
Although the barn was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977, it was in rapid decay. Several local efforts failed to gain traction, but in 1988 the Arcadia Historical and Preservation Society was formed. They began raising funds for the barn's restoration.
Collapse
On June 29th, 1988 at 12:09 pm, the roof of the barn collapsed. A witness stated, "just kind of sighed and fell in, like a souffle." The Historical and Preservation Society would not be deterred by this seeming disaster and set to work themselves.
Luke Robison, a retired contractor, led efforts with many advocates and other retired professionals to restore the barn. Using historic materials when available and using similar methods from 90 years earlier, the restored barn was dedicated on April 4, 1992.
A New Roof on the Round BarnOklahoma Route 66 Association
Preservation never ends
The barn continues to be looked after by the Arcadia Historical and Preservation Society as the volunteer organization replaces siding, fixes the roof, refreshes the paint, and hosts music events in the loft. It's one of the most photographed attractions on all of Route 66.
Ceiling of the LoftOklahoma Route 66 Association
Lofty aspirations paid off
Route 66 is an international destination, bringing thousands of travelers to Arcadia's iconic round barn. Generations of Oklahomans greet them as they walk in the door and tell them the story of how history was saved in Arcadia.
Learn more about the Arcadia Round Barn at https://arcadiaroundbarn.com/
