City of Preston

"America's Trout Capital"

Down on the Farm: Regional Rural Architecture

Throughout the scenic byway, the countryside is dotted with remnants of the region’s rural heritage. Massive barns, simple outbuildings, and tall silos often accompany modest frame and brick houses. Near Preston is the Allis Barn, an outstanding example of a three-story barn with pegged-timber construction. The barn was constructed in 1899 for the Reliance Stock Farm, which raised thoroughbred cattle, swine, and horses and included two racetracks. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the barn has been converted to a restaurant and hostel for the Old Barn Resort. The 1890 Milwaukee Grain Elevator, where farmers would store and trade grain to be shipped out on the nearby rail line, is another symbol of Preston’s agricultural past. The grain elevator is the last remaining structure of this once-vital rail shipping point for agricultural and other goods from Preston and the surrounding area.

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Preston serves as a hub for the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail and the Root River State Trail, which connect just north of Preston. With the high-quality trout fishing available around Preston, it is no wonder that the town celebrates an annual “Preston Trout Days.” Come join the festivities every May.