Red Barn Project

The red barn is a charming example of early California ranch buildings. It suffered from severe weather, time, and the loss of its west wall due to storm damage and neglect over the years.

For years, MSC sought donations to fully restore the red barn, rebuilding the structure so it could be used for Park programs. Russell L. Meeks, AIA, generously donated time and expertise in drawing up preliminary architectural plans for the site.

We felt that the red barn could be made into a self-guided walk- through museum, with displays of ranch history, flora fauna, and horses, providing the visiting public with an informative and entertaining activity at the stables.

In 2011, the National Park Service incorporated the Red Barn into a new footprint plan as part of broadsweeping changes proposed in t new Equestrian Plan for the GGNRA. One proposal is for the Red Barn to be used for hay storage for a volunteer park patrol. As yet, the plan is under review, but the Red Barn has been re-sided and by volunteers from Chico State and is scheduled to be repainted in 2012.