Brandon Twp.- In 1847, Thomas Alva Edison was born in Milan, Ohio. That same year, construction was completed on a small barn just north of Hummer Lake Road about 3 miles east of Ortonville. Today, more than 160 years later, the two-story 46-by-38 foot structure still stands despite Michigan weather, numerous coats of paint and a handful of owners.
‘It’s thought to be the oldest barn in the township,? said Midge Stewart, owner. ‘The structure is solid but the roof needs lots of work’we need some help to preserve the building.?
Stewart is seeking volunteers to help repair the roof of the old barn and will supply the materials if anyone is interested.
The interior beams of the structure are in pretty good shape. The saw marks and even some of the bark from the trees that were used during construction is still visible.
According to the Michigan State Tax Commission WPA Survey records, the Hummer Lake Barn was built in 1847 on the homestead of James and Mahala Everett, who were married in 1844. The couple were recorded on the 1850 township census. The barn was described as having a stone foundation, gable roof with wood shingles, wood floors, three windows and rough lumber exterior. According to township maps the barn and adjacent home had several occupants over the years including James Everett, F.J. McRae (1925), CC Corey and Lillian Corey (1930-77); Hank Podell 1978-2007, and currently Midge Stewart.
Jon Noyes, a board member of the Michigan Barn Preservation Network, a statewide organization aimed at rehabilitation of barns for agricultural, commercial, residential, and public uses, said such structures are a big part of the Oakland County landscape.
‘The Everett Barn on Hummer Lake Road is an attractive image on the landscape,? said Noyes.
‘These old structures are symbols of our agricultural heritage’that cannot be replaced. A 160-year- old barn is very rare, especially in a growing area like northern Oakland County.?
To contact Midge regarding the Hummer Lake Barn call 248-627-4445.