1914 Barn (Item 5.4 handed out at meeting)The Beaudry 1914 Barn, a prized landmark of Otsego, still stands to the west of City Hall on 77th Street. Purchased by Frank and
Delphin Beaudry in 1911, the barn was fully completed in 1914, built with red clay bricks 26 blocks high. Additionally, the barn
roof was built using timber salvaged from a flour mill in Minneapolis that was destroyed by fire. The barn was likely constructed
with the help of family and neighboring farmers during a traditional barn raising—a widespread practice in rural communities in
the early 20th century.The Beaudry 1914 Barn became known as the 'Pride of Otsego' because it was considered the largest
barn in Wright County at the time and housed about 40 head of milk cows.
One of the barn's unique features is the absence of rafters in the hay loft, which, combined with its gambrel roof design,
facilitated easier loading of hay using a hoist mounted to the ceiling.. Cupolas originally installed on the roof for ventilation were
removed. Another distinctive feature is the road between the house and the barn, which was originally designed to facilitate the
easy transport of goods to and from the barn.
Alvin, Son of Frank and Delphin, and wife Marie Kasper purchased the farm in 1957, with their son Dennis and current owner
Kathy Beaudry purchasing in 1990. The farm is recognized as a Minnesota Century Farm for being held by the same family for
100 years. Farm functions varied from milk cows to raising young stock and beef cattle. Main crops raised were Rye Grass, Corn,
Hay, and Soy Beans on land plots from near City Hall, to Odean Avenue and even across highway 101 near Daytona Golf Club.
The barn sustained substantial damage to both its east and west ends from strong storms in the 1990s and again in 2014,
requiring repairs. Over the years, metal siding and roof were added, and additional beams were installed to reinforce the
structure. Additionally, four substantial fires occurred on the property damaging other barns and out buildings and a corn dryer.
The 1914 barn currently houses a workshop, with other buildings on the farm used for storage.
2012
1916 1990
Gambril Roof Interior
Century Farm
2025