Knoxville Horse Barn

On Saturday May 15, 2004 Trillium Dell Timberworks rebuilt a reclaimed oak barn. Measuring 42 x 48, the barn was originally built in 1858, just outside of Astoria, IL. After a tornado blew the roof off, the barn was dismantled last fall and brought to our shop. The original rafters were lost in the tornado and will be replaced with 26' Douglas Fir rafters. Mostly consisting of hewn white oak, this barn also contains a mixture of walnut and ash. It offers some stunning period joinery like the continuous 44' tie beams with rare through tenon detail occurring at the post top. Salvaging much of the original stone, the barn was raised on a new foundation where it will serve as a four stall horse barn.

The week prior to the raising, a workshop was held where restoration techniques and raising strategy will were taught. The workshop covered many facets of the restoration process, from hand and power tool use, to basic and advanced layout, and cutting. Workshop cost is $100 for 5 days of instruction, and some lodging was available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Barn Raising a Success!

May 15, 2004 was a perfect day to raise our timber frame barn. Blue skies and plenty of sunshine greeted us that morning. Plenty of people lent a hand, and we wish to express our sincere thanks to everyone. Much progress was made that day, not possible without the willing and able help of the Trillium Dell Timberworks gang, workshop attendees, local carpenters, not so local timber framers, and interested local folk.

With proceeds from the sale of lunch, we were able to donate $500.00 to the Phelps Barn Committee to further their restoration efforts. Everyone enjoyed the music and commentary of Chris Vallillo. Wrapping up the day, Stephan, a visiting carpenter from Germany, toasted the frame with a traditional German blessing. We are pleased to report that the roof is now complete, and we are starting work on the haylofts. Thanks once again to all who contributed to the efforts that day, Rick and Laura Collins

A larger more detailed image is available by clicking on each picture.

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Trillium Dell Timberworks
Timber Frame Homes
1277 Knox Rd. 1600 North
Knoxville, IL 61448
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309.289.7921