HHA Programming Returns Virtually, With “Case-Barlow Farm: A Model of Historic Preservation”

September program featuring Julie Lindner will air Sept. 10 on Hudson Community TV.

HUDSON, Ohio – Hudson Heritage Association’s popular monthly programs are back, and those interested in the history and architecture of the Western Reserve won’t have to leave their homes to enjoy them.

For the health and safety of everyone, HHA’s 2020-21 programming year will begin virtually with presentations airing on Hudson Community TV (Channel 1021) and HCTV’s online livestream (www.hudson.oh.us/1081/Watch-HCTV-Channels-Online). The season launches September 10, at 7:30 p.m. with Julie Linder, Trustee at Case-Barlow Farm, sharing a presentation about the remarkable 206-year history of Case-Barlow Farm and the exciting renovations that have transformed the buildings and property into one of Hudson’s crown jewels. For those who miss the broadcast on September 10, the program will be available soon after on HCTV’s online archives.

The exterior of Case-Barlow Farm’s recently renovated “Big Red” barn.

Lindner will share the history of Case-Barlow Farm, located at 1931 Barlow Road, and the self-sustaining nonprofit that has operated the stunning homestead since 1996. The organization has nearly completed an ambitious preservation and restoration of “Big Red,” the farm’s iconic barn that dates back to 1890. Once complete later in 2020, Big Red, one of the largest dairy barns in the state, will be used for programming and events, generating income to ensure the continued preservation of the farm for years to come.

The history of Case-Barlow Farm traces back to 1814, when Chauncey Case, wife Cleopatra and their five children arrived in Hudson to begin a new life on 150 acres they’d purchased from the Connecticut Land Company. In 1830, a colonial home was built on the property using bricks fired on the property. The Case family thrived, and by 1890 the farm had grown to 485 acres. During the 19th century, the farm served as a stop on the Underground Railroad and was often the site for local abolitionist meetings.

Henry Case Barlow and Isabel Sackett Barlow, photographed with their sons Franklin, Harold and Donald, in the early 20th century.

The farm remained in the Case and Barlow families for almost 200 years. In the 1990s, Don Barlow donated the remaining acres, the historic home, wagon shed, milk houses, corn crib and barn to the First Congregational Church of Hudson. In 1996, an effort led by Hudson Heritage Association led to the formation of a nonprofit, which was able to purchase, save and give new life to the farm and buildings.

The remarkable history and exciting future of Case-Barlow Farm will be the subject of Hudson Heritage Association’s September program.

“Case-Barlow Farm stands as one of our best examples of the power of historic preservation,” said Chris Bach, Hudson Heritage Association President. “The lessons of farm life apply to Case-Barlow’s many volunteers and advocates: hard work and passion reap bountiful rewards.

“While we would love for this program to be in person, so we could see our members and friends – old and new – we know that right now, health and safety are top priorities,” Bach added. “We will continue to provide our popular and informative monthly programs and continue to fulfill HHA’s mission of education, preservation and advocacy. We look forward to when we can be together again.”