The cover of “The Barns of Maine: Our History, Our Stories,” by Don Perkins.
Maine author Don Perkins calls himself a self-taught “barnologist,” a specialist in the history of barns, when he describes the expertise he will share with the Old Bristol Historical Society on Sunday, July 9, at 7 p.m. at the Congregational Church of Bristol Mills, at 1261 Bristol Road, Bristol Mills (Bristol). The historical group is taking its lecture series on the road this summer, scheduling its programs at venues in several of the villages that make up the town of Bristol. Later events are scheduled for Round Pond, Pemaquid Falls, and Pemaquid Point.
In earlier jobs as a carpenter and woodworker, Perkins developed his affection for old barns and interest in the types of joints and framing designs used. He has been a freelance writer for the past 15 years, and also wrote a column about barns for two Maine newspapers. His book “Maine Barns: Our History, Our Stories” was published in 2012. Copies will be available for purchase and signing by the author following the meeting.
Perkins’ illustrated lecture will relate trends in the design of Maine barns to changes in farming, such as the evolution from subsistence farming to commercial specialized farming, and to the growing importance of dairy farming and the decline in sheep production during the late 19th century.
Members of the Old Bristol Historical Society’s board have consulted with local historians to compile a list of old barns in Bristol and have provided photos to Perkins for use in his presentation.
Parking and the entrance to the community room are at the rear of the church. Access is by the drive next to Deb’s Bristol Diner.
