The Story Behind Idaho’s Smiling Barn Will Brighten Your Day

The Story Behind Idaho’s Smiling Barn Will Brighten Your Day

Photo by Joe Dudeck on Unsplash // Canva

Why do people love old barns?

Like our elderly neighbor next door, old barns have a storied history that captures our hearts and imaginations. A tangible connection to our past, they remind us of simpler times gone by.

 

Photo by Kelcy Gatson on Unsplash
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Barns are a tie to Idaho heritage. 

Built by scratch from wood, stone, and sweat, these aging beauties are a testament to the times when a family's land was their livelihood.

Our ancestors knew the difference between surviving and thriving was hard, honest work and ingenuity. There were no safety nets or no subsidies. They lived with intention and left nothing to chance or destiny.

It was an honorable way to live.

 

Photo by Matt Benson on Unsplash
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Barn craftsmanship is fascinating. 

Even if they tried, we doubt today's builders could duplicate the enduring whimsical beauty of a weathered barn.

In the age of mass production and automation, few things are built to last anymore. The buildings and furnishings of yesterday are standing the test of time, peppering yard sales and antique stores around the world.

Meanwhile, we'll be lucky if the IKEA sectional we just bought will survive the next five years of our kids lives.

 

 

Idaho's Smiling Barn

The little-known story behind Idaho's smiling barn unfolds in the small town of Whitney. Friendship, neighbors, love, and loss with a dash of surprise all come together to create the most famous smile in the Gem State.

Keep scrolling for...

  • The charming story & history of Idaho's smiling barn

  • A look that beautiful barndominiums being built in Idaho

 

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  • The farmland developers can't touch in 25 Idaho counties

  • 8 roadside farmstands with the best produce in Boise

 

The Fascinating Story Behind Idaho's Smiling Barn

Being one of the state's most bizarre and beloved landmarks, Idaho's smiling barn has attracted curious locals and tourists from around the country. But do you know the story behind the barn's smile?

Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

We're In Love with Idaho's Most Charming Barndominium

Honestly, we weren't sold on the barndominium trend spurred by HGTV's Chip and Joanna Gaines until we laid on this charmer out in Weiser.

Gallery Credit: Ryan Valenzuela

Developers Can't Destroy The Farmland In 25 Idaho Counties

Stacker compiled a list of counties with the most farmland in Idaho using data from the Agriculture Department's Farm Service Agency.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

Where to Find 8 Roadside Farmstands With The Best Produce In Boise

Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

Filed Under: newsletter, Ry barns, Ry local stories
Categories: Local News

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