Rudicel-Montgomery
Polygonal Barn
C.R. 700S at 400E, Waldron
Barn Decline
Historic barns are iconic representations of Indiana’s agricultural heritage, but as changing farming practices leave many barns without use or incentive for maintenance, they are disappearing at an alarming rate. In Shelby County, the 12-sided Rudicel-Montgomery Polygonal Barn is an exceptional example and a repeat entry on this year’s 10 Most Endangered list.
Between 1850 and 1936, 67 polygonal barns were built in Indiana, prized for their efficiency and cost-effective design before round barns eventually outpaced them in popularity. In 1910, George Rudicel worked with local carpenters Roy and Earl Henderson to build a polygonal barn, using the lower level to pen livestock and the upper level to store hay and straw. Today, the barn is vacant and believed to be one of a dwindling number of polygonal barns that still dot Indiana’s rural landscape. Though its appearance on the 10 Most Endangered list last year attracted admiration and interest in rehabilitating the site, it needs significant investment.
In 2024, Indiana Landmarks, Indiana Barn Foundation, and Shelby County’s Blue River Community Foundation funded a study by a timber restoration specialist to assess the barn’s condition and rehabilitation needs, estimated to range from $80,000 for stabilization to $125,000 for full restoration. The community foundation has announced plans to support fundraising for the Rudicel-Montgomery Polygonal Barn, but until full funding is secured, the barn’s future remains precarious.
Mark Dollase
Vice President of Preservation Services
Indiana Landmarks
317-639-4534
mdollase@indianalandmarks.org
Rachael Ackley
Executive Director
Shelby County Tourism & Visitors Bureau
317-398-9623
rachael@visitshelbycounty.com
Saving threatened buildings takes teamwork. You can be a part of that team. Reach out to local leaders. Let them know these buildings are important to you. And support state and local preservation groups.