The Barn that tugged on our hearts
When Dwight’s Aunt Marge passed away in 2011, Dwight and Shelly knew they wanted to keep the fields in production and the land in agriculture. The property Aunt Marge affectionately coined “Folk Song Farm” included a large barn that was built by the Mauer family when they settled the land in 1853.
By 2014, The Barn that once stood straight and proud was in ill repair and slumping over. Unable to imagine the property without The Barn his ancestors had dedicated their lives to, Dwight resolved to restore it.
Calling on friends from the Amish community, we – Dwight and Shelly, and our children – started the restoration journey in October of 2014. By November 30, 2017, the project was complete.
For our family, Folk Song Farm isn’t just a place – it’s where heaven touches earth. For seven generations, the Mauer/Mayer family has stored the crops in the barn. They’ve reflected and relied on their relationship with God for strength to raise, train and nourish their families. A lot of hard work, laughter and countless great memories transpired at The Barn.
And now, we are delighted to open up the beauty and the history of The Barn at Folk Song Farm to others who appreciate the splendor, family tradition, commitment to agriculture and education The Barn embodies.
At Folk Song Farm the welcome mat is out to neighbors, community, schools and families … not just for life’s personal celebrations but also for corporate functions and educational opportunities that explore what agri-tourism has to offer.
Romantic. Elegant. Built to last forever.
Going back to our roots
In 1853, after the Mauers arrived from Germany, they cleared the land and built the barn on the Folk Song Farm property. The Mauer homestead has incredible sentimental meaning to us; Dwight’s grandma Mayer was born on the property and Grandma Helen (Mauer) became the fourth generation when she was married to Christian Mayer. In 1924, their wedding ceremony was held here. Since the 1970s the Mayers have operated the land on the homestead that was owned by Dwight’s Aunt Marge (Mayer) Slaughter.
In 1973, Aunt Marge purchased the Mauer Homestead from her uncle Henry Mauer.
Family was central to Marge’s life. She focused her energies on family, church, community and her ‘greater 4-H family’. Marge was a pillar in our children’s lives, loving and teaching them and ensuring all three were involved in 4-H.
Folk Song Farm was more than property to Marge. It was her pride and joy. The fully hand-hewed and wooden-pegged barn represents her family’s work ethic and farming tradition. She wanted to see the property and The Barn remain in the family and continue to be knitted in the tapestry of agriculture.
A retired school teacher, Marge dedicated her life to her church, farm, community and education. After retiring from teaching, Aunt Marge became a professional Clown and full-time 4-H leader. She performed in parades and taught young 4-Hers the art of Clowning and performance. Her Clown name was OOPSLA the Clown.
With each passing day of The Barn’s restoration, Dwight and Shelly maintained their promise to Marge’s children that the building would be restored and the legacy of farming on this parcel of land would continue.
Richfield, Wisconsin is not just where Dwight’s ancestors settled after arriving from Germany in the 1880s. It’s where he proudly passes the torch to the seventh generation – Devin, Cassandra and Dylan Mayer.
Join us at Folk Song Farm to experience more about its story and its ties to agriculture. Enjoy its tranquil beauty and celebrate the heritage of our Richfield community. We are sure you’ll agree with us - Folk Song Farm is a bit of heaven on earth.
More than a barn … it’s a little heaven on earth.
