The Hinkle-Garton Farmstead is a nineteenth century farm that was donated in 2003 to Bloomington Restoration Inc.(local preservation non-profit) by Daisy Garton, a long-time resident of Bloomington. I've been told by some locals that Ms. Garton was a staunch preservationist in town and was responsible for saving many of the cities most impressive landmarks. Hinkle-Garton Farmstead now serves as the BRI headquarters and as a museum for the community.
Once over 80 acres and home to the "Potato King of Monroe County," the farmstead now covers 11 acres, with two homes, four farm outbuildings, and extensive grounds. The main house is a nineteenth century Queen Anne style built in 1892, and notable for its double porches, chamfered shingles, and starburst pattern seen in the gables.
The farmstead has four outbuildings that are original to the property when it was a fully functional farm. The largest building is the dairy barn; there is also a corn crib, a blacksmith shed, and a garage.
Over the weekend I joined a maple syrup making class at the farmstead to get to know the property and learn about this sweet midwestern pastime. It was too cold for the sap to run quickly but we learned how to tap and boil while sipping some delicious maple tea.
I look forward to more weekends spent learning and volunteering around the farmstead. For updates about the Hinkle-Garton Farmstead visit their Facebook page.
Sources: Bloomington Restoration Inc.
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