Last updated on May 20th, 2026
This piece of Minnesota history is now long gone, but fondly remembered by many Minnesota photographers.
Known as the “falling-into-the-water” barn, I happened upon it accidentally in 2014 while heading out to do some photography at a nature reserve.
I use links to improve your experience using this website. Some may be affiliate links that pay me a small commission if you use them to book a room, rent a car, or purchase goods or services. You don’t pay extra, but it helps keep this website running. To learn more, see my policies and disclosures.
Finding the barn was a complete surprise.
While I had been aware of its existence for some time (it shows up regularly on local photo pages), I had absolutely no idea where it was located. Thus, you can imagine my surprise when we happened to pass it on a rural road we were taking only because we had missed a key turn earlier in the trip. I really couldn’t believe what I was seeing, but there it was. Better yet, I could photograph it from the edge of the road – no need to wade through a wetland or sneak onto private property to get a great shot! And, to top it off, the sun was still low in the sky, providing beautiful golden light. How’s that for dumb luck?!?
This post is linked to Travel Photo Thursday at Nancie’s Budget Travelers Sandbox where you can find travel photo inspiration from around the world.
All Minnesota posts
It is a real bonus when you happen upon something unexpectedly. I can see why it is such a photographed building. Such a pity it is falling down.
very cool photos! sort of “Dilapidated Saturday Evening Post”
Oh, Eileen, that is so funny. I think I could do a whole book on that theme. Love it.
Wow, Cindy! What a great time of the day to stumble onto this beauty. Your shots are stunning. Thanks for linking to Travel Photo Thursday this week. #TPThursday
Thank you, Nancy. It was especially fortunate because it was so unlikely – I’m not usually up early enough to arrive anywhere shortly after sunrise!
Cheers to serendipity! You captured it at just the right time. I love how the light makes the reeds grow. What’s the story behind this place?
I don’t really know what the story is. The best info that I can find is that the pond used to be much smaller and has grown over time, but no explanation of why. There is another wetland on the other side of the road, so I’m guessing the road created a drainage problem and the barn was the victim. If I’m lucky, someone will see my guess and tell me the real story – preferably something as dramatic as the sight itself!
Beautiful photos – and what an unusual place! Lucky you found it :)
Thanks, Molly. It was a lucky find. Always have to keep an eye out for cool things!
Beautiful capture Cindy. When I ready the title of your post I thought for a minute I was going to Falling Waters – Frank Lloyd Wright’s place.
LOL. It’s sort of the opposite end of the spectrum, although Mr. Wright’s buildings tended to have water problems of their own!
you were certainly very lucky with that golden light. And I love the reflections, the autumn colours, and that looking through the reeds pic #2. Well seen and shot. Have a wonderful weekend. I am joining you at Travel Photo Thursday.
Thanks, Jill. I was very lucky. I’ll check you out at Travel Photo Thrusday – I think we were linking at the same time!