(Dylan Eckhart, WAOW) Restoration efforts are underway to repair a 100-year-old barn in Wausau after it was damaged by strong winds two weeks ago.
According to Dylan Eckhart with WAOW, the barn, located on a small family farm in central Wisconsin, was impacted by heavy, tornado-like winds on the morning of July 19. “We stuck in $60,000 in renovations for the barn to make it last longer, but those winds just hit it,” said Naomi Hackbarth, granddaughter of homeowners.
The storm left the barn and a detached garage severely damaged, though the house suffered less. Despite being decades old, a recent $60,000 renovation had kept the barn in good condition, preventing deterioration.
Unfortunately, many belongings inside were lost or damaged, along with a significant piece of family history. “The farm, or barn I should say, had a lot of memories,” said Hackbarth. Built in 1926, the barn was later purchased by Laurence Oliver, Naomi’s grandfather, who envisioned raising his family and cattle around it.
Oliver fulfilled that vision until he passed away a few years ago. A GoFundMe was set up by the family after learning insurance would only cover the house and part of the garage. They have raised more than $5,000 so far. Salvaging and restoration efforts are being led by Naomi’s family members.
“My cousin and uncle are doing the clean-up efforts, and other family members who are able to, come out and help also,” said Hackbarth. The family plans to salvage what materials they can to begin rebuilding. No restoration crews will be hired as the project remains a family endeavor.
The GoFundMe is nearly halfway to their $12,000 goal.
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