Emily Bayless Graham Park Corn Crib and Hay Barn Stabilization/Weatherization

Emily Bayless Graham Park, nestled in the heart of Bel Air, Maryland, is a serene oasis that invites visitors to unwind and connect with nature. The 69-acre property was generously donated to Harford County in 2015 by Emily Bayless Graham, whose vision was to preserve the natural beauty and open landscape for public enjoyment. Once a working farm, the land had been out of agricultural use for decades, yet Graham sought to ensure that future generations could experience the tranquility of the estate and its surrounding woodlands.

Several historic structures were preserved during the development of the park, including a Georgian-style farmhouse, a livestock barn, a hay barn, and a corn crib, which are thought to date back to the mid-1800s. Two of these buildings, though in significant disrepair, were carefully restored in recognition of their historical and architectural value.

At the corn crib, restoration efforts included replacing the slate roof and foundation, rebuilding the stairs, and restoring or replicating deteriorated components such as siding, joists, corner posts, doors, and the gable window. A key focus of the project was preserving the original hand-hewn, peg-connected timber frame, crafted using traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery. Severely compromised members were replaced in kind, using the same historic construction methods to maintain the building’s authenticity.

Restorations to the hay barn involved replacing the metal roof, replacing the wood siding, rebuilding two barn doors, and painting the exterior. All restoration work to these two structures was undertaken with the goal of faithfully replicating the buildings' original appearance and honoring the craftsmanship of the 19th-century builders. Through these efforts, Emily Bayless Graham Park not only offers a peaceful retreat but also stands as a living tribute to the region’s rural heritage.