In January 2026, the OVBS team traveled to Houston, Texas to reassemble the historic Kurtz Stone Barn frame, a remarkable structure dating back to the early 1820s and measuring 50 feet wide by 75 feet long. Originally built in Ohio using locally quarried sandstone, the barn featured an exceptionally rare all-stone construction. The basement foundation, gable end walls, and bank entrance were laid with solid three-foot-thick sandstone. It is estimated that more than 500 tons of stone were hauled to the site, where local masons hand-cut each piece on location to create this extraordinary barn. In 2022, a powerful derecho destroyed approximately three-quarters of the original roof, leaving the owner unable to complete the necessary repairs. OVBS was subsequently awarded the contract to carefully dismantle the barn and remove the sandstone and timber frame. In 2024, the Alief Independent School District purchased the Kurtz Stone Barn for inclusion in a new agricultural school and community complex, where it will serve as an Outdoor Historical Learning Center. A local general contractor completed the concrete slab in preparation for reassembly. OVBS arrived on site with five semi loads of the Kurtz Stone Barn frame and supporting materials. In just six days, the historic frame was reassembled and once again stood strong—preserved and ready to serve future generations for another 200 years. OVBS takes great pride in transforming Ohio’s historic barns into lasting landmarks, creating meaningful spaces and memories that endure for generations.

• Frame

  Kurtz Stone Barn Frame

• Dimensions

  50' x 75'

• Origin

  1820's

• Feature

  Early Timber Frame

• Feature

  Outdoor Historical Learning Center

• Feature

  Reconstructed in 2026