Barns & Quilts

Historic Barns & Barn Quilts

Wrapped in a kaleidoscope of color, Howard County is becoming a show-case of Barn Quilts. Whether driving to work or taking a leisurely drive in the country, you’ll be able to spot a unique quilt along your way.

The 4-H Clubs have been instrumental in fostering partnerships, challenging communication skills, and building lead-ers through this project. Highlighting the 4 “H’s” of 4-H: Heads, Hands, Heart, and Health, the group started by putting their heads together planning a project to promote Howard County. They utilized many hands to make light work, making a difference and warming the hearts of residents and tourists with a palette of color on the barns and promoting agriculture, the health of Howard County.

Howard County ISU Extension wanted to emphasize the historic role of barns and quilts while benefiting the county economy. As with all good ideas, now you will find individuals throughout the county who have taken this great pro-ject idea and started their own small business making Barn Quilts. Community partnerships, tourism and entrepreneurship go hand in hand in Howard County!

Barn Quilts
Howard County Barn Quilt Map along with contact info

Buckley Barn

12178 200th St, Elma, IA

About 1 mile south of Lourdes, on US 63, turn west onto 200th Street and go two miles to the barn, which is on the south side of 200th Street. Barn was built in 1915 on land given to family by President Buchanan.

Ellingson Barn

19987 Timber Avenue, Cresco

About 1 mile south of Lourdes, on US 63, turn east onto 200th Street. Just past the Stephen Wildlife Area, turn north onto Timber Avenue. The barn can be seen from Dr. Borlaug’s farm, half a mile away. The family farm has been beautifully restored.

Norman Borlaug Boyhood Farm

19518 200th St, Cresco, IA 52136

For over a half century, the scientific and humanitarian achievements of Dr. Norman Borlaug, recipient of over 50 honorary Doctorate Degrees, kept starvation at bay for millions of people in third world countries. Dr. Borlaug is one of only seven people in the world to be awarded the Nobel Peace …