NH Barn Trail launch event held at Gilmanton Year-Round Library in September

GILMANTON ― On Sept. 23, the Gilmanton Year-Round Library ― housed in a historic, relocated structure ― celebrated the launch of the UNH Extension NH Barn Trail. Designed by UNH Extension and its statewide partners, the trail highlights 31 historic barn properties across New Hampshire to support local tourism, strengthen community ties, and provide educational opportunities.

The launch event featured presentations from project leaders who discussed the future of the program. Some of those presenters were Beverly Thomas, Jada Lindbloom, John Porter and Ryan Cutting.

Thomas provided background on the NH Barn Committee and the work being done to save barns. Lindbloom, from UNH Cooperative Extension, offered an overview of the NH Barn Trail websites and resources. Porter traced the history of barns in NH and how barn architecture has evolved over the years. Cutting, who conducted the majority of research for the Barn Trail, expressed how much this project meant to him and relayed experiences from visiting each of the 31 barns on the initial list.

Also presenting were Jeffrey Zygmont, a NH writer, poet, and publisher, who read a poem about the GYRL; and Steve and Liz Bedard who recounted the meticulous process of dismantling, relocating, and restoring the historic Hobbs/Leavitt Barn from North Hampton to Gilmanton. Steve also led a twilight tour to view the exterior of the barn.

For more information, visit extension.unh.edu/resource/new-hampshire-barn-trail.