A Barn Raising quilt, c. 1800

The Barn Raising pattern is based on the versatile Log Cabin block, popular since the mid-19th century. The pattern is created when the blocks are arranged to create rows of diamonds in alternating lights and darks.

Detail of a Barn Raising quilt Barn Raising block design, similar to a Log Cabin block

In January 1997, a group of Loudoun volunteers received permission to convert a 19th century dairy barn for use as a theater on what was originally the Franklin farm property, newly purchased by the County for a park. As fundraising was about to begin, the barn burned to the ground, leaving only the silo and a section of the stone foundation wall still standing.

The barn raising for Franklin Park Arts Center

Undeterred, a year later thousands of volunteers raised the new barn frame in Franklin Park. After more than 10 years of dedicated effort, Franklin Park Arts Center opened its doors to the public in 2008. Today it local and nationally known performers and musicians perform onstage in the theater and changing art exhibits are hosted in the gallery year-round.

The Franklin Park Arts Center today

Detail of a Barn Raising quiltBarn Raising block design, similar to a Log Cabin blockThe barn raising for Franklin Park Arts CenterThe Franklin Park Arts Center today