Located in: Chase, Wisconsin

The Daniel E. Krause Stone Barn (also known as the Chase Stone Barn, was designed by farmer Daniel Krause and built by stonemason William Mensenkamp in 1903. The barn has become renowned for its historical significance, as one of two remaining barns in Wisconsin to be constructed entirely of fieldstone. Its massive arched entrances are large enough to permit the passage of hay wagons through both ends.

The barn and the rest of its farm was sold by the Krause family in 1920. It had eleven owners between Krause’s retirement in 1920 and 1954. During the mid-1950s, the property was purchased by two brothers, who operated the farm into the 21st century and oversaw significant repair work on the barn in the 1990s. By this time, the barn had experienced gradual structural deterioration, as well as tornado damage. Efforts were made in 1995 to refurbish and strengthen the barn, adding temporary supports to shore up the structure.

In 2000, the Krause Barn was listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance. In 2009, the Barn was listed on America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Working with the Jeffris Family Foundation who awarded the site a Capital Campaign Challenge Grant of $287,000 in 2009, local preservationists concentrated on ensuring the survival of this significant local landmark. Today the site is a regional park, for which the barn serves as an event pavilion.