Thomas A. Louden Barn
This three-story barn located on Maple Shade was built in 1891 by Isaac Brooks and Lew Stanley for Thomas A. Louden. Included in the barn was a milking parlor, an indoor silo, second story grain storage with automated filling of wagons, a huge loft for storing hay and several stalls for animals. In 1899 a large windmill was also added to the farm.
Thomas A. Louden and his wife were from a well-to-do family.
In 1972 the water tower was still standing, however, it had to be torn down because of damage from termites. A huge cypress water tank was located in the top of the structure with a small trap door that led to a walkway around the tank. Local folklore relates that the water tower was used by the Underground Railroad to hide slaves while they fled to freedom.
Also pictured above - The original smokehouse at Maple Shade Tree Farm is still in use as a storage building. Curing hooks are still intact, and salt stains remain on the rafters. Photo taken in 2019 after the original slate roof had to be replaced with asphalt shingles.
For nearly fifty years Larry and Jane Clark have owned the residence at Maple Shade Farm and worked tirelessly to maintain this stately old structure. Sadly, Larry passed away in 2015. The home and property continue to be a source of pride for Jane and her family.
Listing Details
Year Established
1891
Element
Barn
Status
Standing
Map