Cherbourg Round Barn
a.k.a. Round Barn
SW of Little Creek off DE 9, Little Creek, DECherbourg Round Barn is significant for both architectural and engineering perspectives because of its unusual plan, use of formed concrete, and unsupported conical roofing system. No others are known to exist in Delaware,
The plan of Round Barn demonstrates an innovative approach to the problems associated with the shelter and nourishment of cattle. The circular plan maximizes the use of the ground floor and facilitates routine cleaning of the living and feeding area. The unusual roof permits the storage of large amounts of hay in proximity to the feeding area below, while the adjacent silos provide convenient storage for additional food supplements.
In the early twentieth century, formed concrete was used primarily for military coastal defense installations and in public construction projects involving bridges. Its use for purposes of private construction, in the case of Round Barn, is very unusual. Round Barn utilizes a mesh of twisted one-half-inch iron bars to increase the strength of the poured concrete. The construction of Round Barn was an ambitious project in which the originator broke with local traditional concepts of agricultural architecture to use new materials and plans. In essence, Round Barn is a poured concrete version of wooden, brick, and stone round barns occasionally built in New England and other parts of the United States during the nineteenth century.
The two-pitched roof is an extraordinary engineering feat. The roof is supported only by its straightforward system of rafters and plates. There are no additional interior cross braces or collars. There appears to have been no need of major repairs to the roof from the time that it was first put up, which gives silent testimony to the viability of this architectural form.
Local significance of the building:
The plan of Round Barn demonstrates an innovative approach to the problems associated with the shelter and nourishment of cattle. The circular plan maximizes the use of the ground floor and facilitates routine cleaning of the living and feeding area. The unusual roof permits the storage of large amounts of hay in proximity to the feeding area below, while the adjacent silos provide convenient storage for additional food supplements.
In the early twentieth century, formed concrete was used primarily for military coastal defense installations and in public construction projects involving bridges. Its use for purposes of private construction, in the case of Round Barn, is very unusual. Round Barn utilizes a mesh of twisted one-half-inch iron bars to increase the strength of the poured concrete. The construction of Round Barn was an ambitious project in which the originator broke with local traditional concepts of agricultural architecture to use new materials and plans. In essence, Round Barn is a poured concrete version of wooden, brick, and stone round barns occasionally built in New England and other parts of the United States during the nineteenth century.
The two-pitched roof is an extraordinary engineering feat. The roof is supported only by its straightforward system of rafters and plates. There are no additional interior cross braces or collars. There appears to have been no need of major repairs to the roof from the time that it was first put up, which gives silent testimony to the viability of this architectural form.
Engineering; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
In recent years, the District of Delaware has become known for its role in corporate law and litigation. Many large corporations, particularly those in the pharmaceutical and technology industries, choose to incorporate in Delaware due to the state's favorable corporate laws and the expertise of its legal professionals. As a result, the District of Delaware has seen a significant increase in the number of patent and intellectual property cases in recent years.
About Kent County
Kent County Timeline
Kent County, located in the state of Delaware, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the colonial era. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape people before European settlers arrived in the early 17th century. The first permanent European settlement in the county was established by the Dutch in 1631, but they were soon displaced by the English who took control of the region.
During the 18th century, Kent County played a significant role in American history, particularly during the American Revolution. The county's proximity to important waterways, such as the Delaware River, made it a strategic location for trade and transportation. Dover, the county seat, became the state capital in 1777 and hosted the state's constitutional convention. It was also the site of the historic Golden Fleece Tavern, where the Constitution of Delaware was ratified.
In the 19th century, Kent County experienced economic growth and development, largely centered around agriculture and industry. The county became known for its large agricultural estates, such as Dover's Green Thatch Plantation, which contributed to the region's prosperity. With the advent of railroads, transportation became more efficient, allowing for easier movement of goods and people.
In the 20th century, Kent County saw further growth and diversification. The establishment of Dover Air Force Base during World War II brought economic opportunities and employment to the area. Additionally, the county's location between two major cities, Philadelphia and Baltimore, contributed to its role as a transportation hub and a growing business center. Today, Kent County continues to thrive as a blend of agricultural, industrial, and residential communities, while also preserving its historical heritage through numerous museums, historic sites, and landmarks.
During the 18th century, Kent County played a significant role in American history, particularly during the American Revolution. The county's proximity to important waterways, such as the Delaware River, made it a strategic location for trade and transportation. Dover, the county seat, became the state capital in 1777 and hosted the state's constitutional convention. It was also the site of the historic Golden Fleece Tavern, where the Constitution of Delaware was ratified.
In the 19th century, Kent County experienced economic growth and development, largely centered around agriculture and industry. The county became known for its large agricultural estates, such as Dover's Green Thatch Plantation, which contributed to the region's prosperity. With the advent of railroads, transportation became more efficient, allowing for easier movement of goods and people.
In the 20th century, Kent County saw further growth and diversification. The establishment of Dover Air Force Base during World War II brought economic opportunities and employment to the area. Additionally, the county's location between two major cities, Philadelphia and Baltimore, contributed to its role as a transportation hub and a growing business center. Today, Kent County continues to thrive as a blend of agricultural, industrial, and residential communities, while also preserving its historical heritage through numerous museums, historic sites, and landmarks.
Kent County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Kent County, Delaware.
- 1680: Kent County was established as one of three original counties in Delaware.
- 1682: The county's first courthouse was built in Duck Creek Crossroads, now known as Smyrna.
- 1701: Kent County became the new capital of Delaware, replacing New Castle.
- 1777: The Battle of Cooch's Bridge, the only Revolutionary War battle fought in Delaware, took place in the county.
- 1787: Delaware became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution at the Golden Fleece Tavern in Dover.
- 1829: The Delaware Railroad was established, connecting Kent County to the growing transportation network.
- 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment, abolishing slavery, was ratified by Delaware in Dover.
- 1978: The Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village opened in Dover, showcasing the county's agricultural history.
- 2013: Kent County celebrated its 330th anniversary with various events and activities.