It has not been confirmed that this was used for dairy cattle, but many interiors of dairy barns were whitewashed, as is this one. The barn was white when the Heyders bought the property in 1989. Repainted red a second time last year, the striking exterior is also a traditional facet of American barns. Early barns were not painted because it was considered extravagant and even vulgar, but several theories exist as to why northern and mid-Atlantic farmers started painting their barns red in the early 19th century. Northern settlers migrated west via the Erie Canal and Great Lakes bringing their traditions with them.
Some researchers believe it is a Scandinavian influence used to simulate brick and wealth.
An abundance of blood stock or iron oxide that could be mixed with milk to make red paint is another thought. Another study clouds the matter. When farmers were asked why they painted their barns red, many replied that red was available and cheap. Manufacturers, when asked, said they produced abundant supplies of red paint because many farmers bought it. Besides the painting, no structural repair has been required for the barn, but 19 of the two-dozen windows have been replaced and most of the 11 doors have been nailed closed.