MINT HILL, NC – A whirlwind of activities at The Barn in the Carl J. McEwen Historic Village began with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on November 21. Members of the Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce and Mayor Pro Tem Dale Dalton assisted members of the Mint Hill Historical Society in cutting the ribbon. More than 100 invited donors, volunteers, and trustees of the MHHS flung the doors wide open to get the first glimpse of the spacious 3600-square-foot timber frame barn.
Many volunteers and donors were recognized for their contribution to the construction of the magnificent 1880’s timber frame barn with modern state-of-the-art bathrooms and a catering kitchen. Most of the volunteers had no previous carpentry experience, yet the exquisite detailing is that of a master carpenter. The Stable has black bars on the sliding doors, and the Tack Room is filled with old saddles, bridles, and a few horse collars. The hay wagon and old wheelbarrow are filled with sacks of grain. All spaces recall an era when farming was the primary commerce of Mint Hill. The kitchen has a decorative wood-burning cookstove and milk jugs, which remind one of the many dairy farms and silos in Mint Hill. These dairy farms once produced an abundance of milk, cream, and butter not only for local residents but also for the larger milk providers like Sealtest and Farmers Dairy.
The unveiled Bob Rowland Community Room will provide much needed rental space for small gatherings and meetings. The large barn floor will accommodate up to 125 people for seated dinners at weddings, special events, and parties, and up to 250 for corporate meetings with auditorium-style seating. The much-needed downtown rental space will fill a void; it will be a welcome venue for Mint Hill citizens, including anyone who is looking for a unique and charming meeting space.
Becky Griffin was presented the first MHHS Lifetime Achievement Award for her vision throughout the years and guiding “The Barn” project dream to successful completion. Her son, Scott, presented the award in a touching tribute to her dedication. It was a tremendous and triumphant day as the completed building structure was dedicated and unveiled. Mint Hill’s history and humble farming roots certainly have local historical significance; it should be appreciated by all who come and visit the Mint Hill Historic Village as we go back in time to a different era.
If you are interested in renting “The Barn” facility for your next event, please contact or call Sue Todd at (704) 724-2690 or email minthillhistory@gmail.com. The doors are finally now open for your enjoyment and pleasure.
