Donation Helps Preserve Historic Barn in Adams County

Barn owners gift $1,500 to local preservation group for barn star acquisition

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Barn owners Steve and Beth Marini of New Oxford, Pennsylvania presented a $1,500 donation to the Historic Gettysburg Adams County (HGAC) organization to purchase a handcrafted, four-foot wide painted wood barn star. The star, created by renowned Pennsylvania Dutch folk artist Patrick Donmoyer, will be used to help fund HGAC's Barn Preservation and Grant Program, which provides assistance to local barn owners.

Why it matters

Barn preservation is an important effort in rural Pennsylvania, as many historic barns face threats of disrepair or demolition. The donation from the Marinis will help HGAC continue its mission of protecting the region's agricultural heritage and cultural identity embodied in these iconic structures.

The details

The donated barn star combines traditional Pennsylvania Dutch barn star painting techniques with a central rosette and floral petal border. It was previously displayed during HGAC's 2025 Historic Barns Tour. The star will now be used by the organization to raise additional funds for its barn preservation grant program, which provides financial assistance to Adams County barn owners.

  • The Marinis presented the $1,500 donation to HGAC on February 22, 2026.
  • The barn star was originally displayed during HGAC's 2025 Historic Barns Tour.

The players

Steve and Beth Marini

Barn owners from New Oxford, Pennsylvania who donated $1,500 to the HGAC barn preservation effort.

Bernie Mazer

President of the Historic Gettysburg Adams County (HGAC) organization.

Patrick Donmoyer

Director of the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center at Kutztown University and renowned Pennsylvania Dutch folk artist who created the donated barn star.

Curt Musselman

Executive Director of the HGAC Barn Preservation Project.

Bob McIlhenny

Project Director of Development for the HGAC.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This donation highlights the important role that private citizens can play in preserving local agricultural heritage and cultural identity. By supporting organizations like HGAC, barn owners and community members can help ensure that these historic structures continue to be maintained and celebrated for generations to come.