Foundation supports restoration of century-old-garage at Case-Barlow Farm

Submitted by Case-Barlow Farm 

Through the generosity of the Hudson Community Foundation, the garage adjacent to Case-Barlow Farm’s iconic farmhouse and barn has been given a fresh new look. The garage block was recently stripped of its old paint, masonry repairs were done, and new breathable paint was applied. 

The preservation of the garage was a one-time investment in restoring the building to last for decades to come. CBF’s cast block garage was built in the 1920s, using a technique that was popular from the 1890s to 1930s, called rock-faced block or cast stone. The development of inexpensive block-making machinery contributed to the widespread use of cast block. In 1895, Sears Roebuck and Company began selling components and plans for various types of buildings using rock-face block. The company promoted cast concrete’s insulating properties, fire resistance and decorative appearance.    The garage building is unassuming, but its construction and placement on the property enables visitors to learn about the construction technique and the placement of accessory buildings related to the main house. 

photo caption: Built in the 1920s, Case-Barlow Farm’s garage got a facelift courtesy of Hudson Community Foundation.