By Kaitlyn Kuehl-Berns A century of music, memories and rural traditions was celebrated at the Plagman Barn’s “100th Birthday” Dance, hosted by the Northeast Iowa Farm & Antique Association on Saturday, Aug. 9. The 136-foot-long barn was originally built near Garber in 1925 by Bill Plagman, and was constructed specifically as a meeting space for barn dances. Its first dance was in September of 1925, and the building continued to be used for this purpose until October 1939. In Plagman Barn’s prime, it welcomed guest performers from across the country. Lawrence Welk, the leader of a traveling orchestra, was one of the most notable performers. Popular local bands of the time included the Jolly Ridge Hillbillies and Dealer’s Choice. People came from great distances to attend the events. There is a loft at the end of the barn where young children could sleep. The large basement was used for storage of horses during the dances. The barn sat empty and was used for hay storage until 1982, when the Northeast Iowa Farm & Antique Association was created and they began restoration. The association is dedicated to the building’s historical preservation as well as education of local youth by demonstrating the area’s early farm and home practices and techniques. The buildings throughout the property include multiple barns, a summer kitchen, school house, print shop, blacksmith shop and saloon, all of which display unique items, memorabilia, household items and machinery. Originally, women got into barn dances free and men had to pay an admission cost of just $0.36 in 1925 and $1 in 1939. To celebrate the 100 years, admission to the Plagman Barn Dance on Aug. 9 was $1 with free will donations welcome. The 100th birthday celebration will continue through the Plagman Barn Show Days on Sept. 19, 20 and 21. For the annual event, the buildings and barn are open to the public with demonstrations happening throughout the week. Other activities include a horse pull, antique tractor pull, kids pedal pull, kids zone and flea market. The special “100 year” admission button for this fall’s Plagman Barn Show Days will be available for sale at the dance. This year’s quilt and raffle prizes will be available for viewing as well. More information about the association and upcoming events can be found on the “Northeast Iowa Farm & Antique Association” Facebook page or at plagmanbarn.com/.