Edmond Life and Leisure - March 14, 2024

Elder citizens from the Chickasaw Nation toured the Round Barn in February. (Photo by Andrea Moon, Round Barn board member and tour guide)

Big push for Round Barn tourism

Students and other tour groups who visit the Arcadia Round Barn can learn more about agriculture, history, transportation, architecture, building construction and what it was like to live during a time when most machines were powered by humans and horses.

The narrative of how the barn was built in 1898 begins with a series of storyboards just inside the door, and continues nearly 100 years until the day the restored barn was dedicated as a museum. Other exhibits include photos and sketches of the town of Arcadia dating to the early days of the barn, a collection of vintage farm equipment and hand tools, artifacts donated by the descendants of the barn builders, a restored railroad baggage cart and a refurbished black buggy, and photos and other memorabilia that tell the story of Route 66, which is approaching its 100th birthday.

Tour group members are invited to end their narrated tours in the loft, where they can view the majestic ceiling and test out the acoustics.

The length of a guided tour can be customized to fit the needs of the group, with visits of at least 30 minutes recommended. Visitors are also welcome to take self-guided tours.

The suggested donation for tour groups and all visitors is $2 per person. Bottled water is sold in the gift shop, and hot coffee is available with advance notice.

Joe Baxter, who coordinates the live music at the barn, also provides narrated tours.

“I am a lifelong resident of Oklahoma and have been volunteering at the barn for nearly 20 years,” Baxter said. “I am constantly hearing new stories and gaining new insight about the contributions of pioneers such as the Round Barn builders to Arcadia, Oklahoma territory and the state of Oklahoma. “

To arrange a tour, call Baxter at 405-833-1350.