As that distinct cold weather begins to circulate in the air with the holiday season closely approaching, Elizabethtown College students are becoming restless and ready for the long winter break. Before heading home for the holidays, be sure to take advantage of all the sightseeing and attractions centered around winter.
A breathtaking illustration of the season is located right here in Elizabethtown. Believe it or not, it was recently moved into our very own college town from Dauphin County. The Star Barn was built in 1877 after the land was purchased by Colonel John Motter. He used the barn primarily to display his horses, which he was in business selling for use in the Civil War. A man of many talents, Motter was also both the president of a bank and the owner of a hotel.
A great representation of U.S. agriculture during this time, The Star Barn served many purposes, from housing animals to producing dairy. As highways began to develop around the once-rural area, the barn became at risk of closing. Tragically, all economic production and farming were lost in 1986.
This is not to say that the concerned community did not rally their best efforts around the cause. Organizations and groups grew in support of The Star Barn, aiming to restore it to its former glory as a well-known historical site. This simply was not enough to save it—at least while keeping it where it was.
The best solution, then, was to move The Star Barn to another location. Away from the hustle and bustle of the quickly developing Middletown, Pa., the barn could reclaim its renowned reputation. Coincidentally, The Star Barn was moved to our own Elizabethtown around 2016.
Now, the barn sits on 275 acres of magnificent natural beauty. The restored property is settled down into our adored nook of Pennsylvania, where it is no longer at constant threat by development. The barn now serves as its own source of economic success.
Over the past several years, The Star Barn has served not only as a continuous historical landmark representing the endurance and hard work of our Pa. ancestors, but also as a stunning tourist location and event venue. Particularly during this time of year, when the holidays are quickly approaching, the barn serves as lodging, houses a Christmas village and even displays a colorful holiday lights show. Visitors can even attend a delectable Christmas dinner event throughout the month of December which showcases The Star Barn’s carefully renovated interior. Warm lighting and classic holiday decorations fill each nook and cranny as peoples’ laughter permeates the air with cheer.
As a break from the stress and chaos of this final stretch of the semester, be sure to take a trip down to The Star Barn before heading home for the holidays. Take advantage of the barn in its prime season, appreciating the time and perseverance of those who worked effortlessly to restore it.
