The Silo - Built to Feed a Working Ranch
Taller than most, this grain silo once stored feed for the cattle and horses that worked the land.
Its construction combines a sturdy rock and concrete base — similar to the Rock Barn and Chicken House — with a terra-cotta style interior and metal exterior. That combination has helped it withstand decades of Midwest weather, from heavy storms to high winds.
A small roofed entry structure along its side adds a unique detail, hinting at how it was once accessed and used.
Still Standing Strong - Preserved by Time
Even after all these years, the silo remains remarkably intact.
With its top still in place, the interior has been protected from the elements — unlike many old silos that have been overtaken by trees and weather. The walls remain solid, and the structure still feels as though it could continue standing for decades to come.
Details like the side entry and original materials make it a rare and well-preserved piece of the farm.
The Hidden Walkway - A Path Rediscovered
Extending from the silo to the southeast is an old concrete sidewalk — likely once used to carry grain from the silo to feeding areas alongside it.
The layout suggests troughs may have lined either side, making it easy to distribute feed across the lot. A few original fence posts still stand nearby, offering clues to how the space once functioned.
For years, this entire walkway was buried beneath overgrowth and hedge trees. It wasn’t until we began clearing the land that it reappeared — a “sidewalk to nowhere” that turned out to be part of the farm’s original design.
Uncovering the Silo and Its Hidden Path
Looking Ahead - A New View from Above
As we continue restoring the area around the silo, its scale and presence make it one of the most exciting features on the farm.
We’ve cleared the surrounding land and added simple landscaping and lighting to bring attention to the structure, especially in the evening. Looking ahead, we’ve started to imagine what it would be like to stand at the top — taking in a full 360-degree view of the property and beyond.
Whether that becomes a lookout one day or not, the silo already offers something special: a connection between the farm’s past and what it may become.