The "Old Barn"

The "Old Barn" at the Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site.

NPS photo, Luther Bailey

Quick Facts

Location:

Eugene O'Neill NHS

Significance:

Historic Barn

Designation:

Historic

Amenities

1 listed

Restroom

The Enigmatic Old Barn: From Storage to Stage

The "Old Barn" at the Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site is a structure shrouded in a bit of mystery, as its origins are not well documented. Although the exact construction date remains uncertain, the barn was already present when Eugene O’Neill and his wife, Carlotta, purchased the property in the late 1930s. During their time living there, the barn served practical purposes, such as storing vehicles and other large items.

Today, the Old Barn has taken on a new life as a performance space. It is actively used by the Eugene O'Neill Foundation to produce O'Neill's plays, particularly during the annual O'Neill Festival held in the fall. This transformation from a storage facility to a vibrant cultural venue highlights the adaptive reuse of historic structures, blending the preservation of history with contemporary cultural activities.

The barn's rustic charm and historical significance provide a unique backdrop for theatrical performances, making the experience of watching O'Neill's plays there both immersive and evocative. The Eugene O'Neill Festival is a celebrated event that attracts theatre enthusiasts who appreciate the intersection of literary heritage and live performance.

To learn more about this year’s festival and other events at the Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site, visit the Eugene O'Neill Foundation's website: [2020 O'Neill Festival | Eugene O'Neill Foundation](https://www.eugeneoneill.org/oneill-festival).