First Dairy Barn, 1908 to present.

The development of this large, wood-frame building is mentioned in early records as being needed to relocate dairy cows from the campus proper. The building is currently used for storage and shelter. Early photographs show a white barn although the building is now painted red.

This facility is constructed of clay tile, is oval in shape, and provides bleacher seating for students and spectators at events. The unit, like all of the pavilions, has high windows for natural light and a delightful architectural character reminiscent of large pavilions commonly built at major fair grounds. The building has been restored recently by a joint effort of students and faculty supported by the dairy industry. Date of construction was most likely in 1921 or 1922 in that 1923 photographs show a new building but the construction site was healed at the time.

Dairy Barn and Milking Parlor, 1937 to present.

The present main dairy barn was built during the 1930s and completed in 1937. The building remains in largely original condition both inside and out although milking parlor modifications have been made as improved equipment was acquired over the years.

The barn is a U-shape design with classical gambrel roof accommodating a haymow over the entire structure. The structure was recently roofed with white painted metal. While the material is not in keeping with original roofing it is attractive and fortunately provides long needed protection for the building. The dairy operation has depended heavily on students as workers. As a result, former students have lots of fond memories of their years working at the Iowa State Dairy Farm. Until recently a residence was provided at the farm for student employees. The dairy farm is a routine stop for school field trips. Thus, the milking parlor and animal housing units have been visited by thousands of school children to observe first hand, many for the first time, the source of the food that is so important to them.

Solon A. "Bud" Ewing is Professor Emeritus of Animal Science at Iowa State University and served as Head of the Animal Science Department 1973–1992. He is primary author of the book Farm Animal Well-Being: Stress Physiology, Behavior and Environmental Design. Prentice Hall. 1999.

This article was published orginally by the Iowa Barn Foundation Newsletter. Volume 3 No.2. Fall 2000.

Photograph credits: The photograph of Horse Barn No. 3 was provided by Linda Schmatz, Prairie Village, Kansas. Those of the First Dairy Barn, the Dairy Farm Pavilion and the Dairy Barn and Milking Parlor are by the author. All other photographs are courtesy of the Iowa State University Library/Special Collections Department and are used by permission. The author is grateful for the generous assistance of Betty Erickson and Becky Jordan, Iowa State University Archives, in searching the files for appropriate photographs.

© 2000 Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University. All rights reserved.