Painting Description

I have learned over the years not to drive through Mennonite country in search of a particular subject, but rather to cruise those secondary roads receptive to anything that might be happening. Not only did I happen upon this barn raising near Hawkesville, I had witnessed the fire that had destroyed the earlier structure. When disaster occurs, Mennonites come together to support and, when possible, remedy a problem. At a barn raising, each person accepts a task assigned by the barnwright. This man has planned and prepared, along with the owner, the entire new barn. When possible, old building materials are reused. The horses that have been driven from neighbouring farms need attention as they wait for the trip home. Water, hay or grain is supplied by the owner of the new barn, but the care for these animals is provided by young boys who, although perhaps not big enough to work with the building crew, are well acquainted with the care of these treasured horses. This is good training for the days when these young fellows will act as hostlers at weddings, providing valet parking for the guests, which will earn them good money as tipping is practiced.

This image is available for Licensing. Contact Cynthia [email protected] for inquiries.