Rapp-Owen Granary

Restoration

The Rapp-Owen Granary building was in total disrepair and in danger of being lost. The restoration returned the building’s exterior to its original 1818 shape and form from the Harmonist period. The timber frame, roof trusses and sandstone masonry represent structures found in sixteenth century Germany and Switzerland, from where the original settlers descended. Timber columns and oak wood flooring make the historic building feel nostalgic and warm. The installation of window ledges allow for a sweet, romantic setting. The entryway and door are replicas of the original design.

Through strategies in adaptive reuse, the Granary stands as a marker of New Harmony’s history while functioning as a modern conference center that is utilized by the larger community. Visitors to the building are introduced to the history of New Harmony through displays and artifacts from the early settlement. The community often utilizes the space for weddings and civic events.