Update: Event is cancelled due to weather and will be rescheduled. Groundbreaking for Tyler Arboretum’s ambitious $1.2 million project to renovate its historic, 19^th-century barn will take place this week.

Once completed, the renovations, which will begin on Wednesday, Jan. 27, will expand the arboretum’s ability to give back to the community through its enhanced capacity to host educational and social events, an arboretum press release said.

Built into a south-facing slope, the barn, a popular venue for weddings and corporate events, represents an important agricultural landmark among traditional Pennsylvania bank barns; in fact, the 182 year-old structure is believed to be one of the largest remaining bank barns in the Delaware Valley, the release said.

Working with experts in historic preservation architecture and construction, the restoration work will retain the barn’s original timbers, crackled plaster, and stone walls, celebrating the lofty volume of space. The renovation extends the existing third floor to create a single, 36-foot by 65-foot space, which will open to the rafters and timber work above.

Complemented with a bar area and new restrooms, a new mezzanine level offers additional space overlooking the extended third floor. Exterior improvements will expand the footprint of the existing south terrace and add new landscaping. When completed, the new spaces will accommodate events for up to 210 guests.

“For 182 years, Tyler’s barn has been a constant in the transformation of this magnificent arboretum from working farm to public garden.” Cricket Brien, Tyler Arboretum’s executive director, said in the release. “This renovation means we can expand our education programs and camp to include new children and their families, while bringing events and entertainment to Tyler in new ways. We are fortunate to have partners in this effort who both understand and embrace the unique heritage of the barn and are as committed as we are to ensuring that it continues to be a seamless part of Tyler Arboretum’s grounds.”

The project is funded through an innovative partnership with Tyler’s exclusive caterer, Jeffrey A. Miller Catering (JAM), which began partnering with Tyler in 2004.

“Our partnership with Tyler has helped introduce thousands of new families to Tyler’s grounds and landscapes, and enabled Tyler to present a rich range of significant education programs to a growing audience,” Jeffrey A. Miller, CEO of Jeffrey A. Miller Catering (JAM), said in the release. “We’re thrilled to be continuing our long-standing partnership with Tyler on this project.”

With 17 weddings already booked for 2016, couples looking to get married at Tyler are encouraged to reserve their spots well in advance at jamcater.com, or by calling 610-622-3700.

Architectural services for this project will be provided by Archer & Buchanan Architecture, Ltd., an award-winning West Chester-based firm known for its timeless design, attention to detail, and expert craftsmanship. Construction services will be provided by King of Prussia-based CVMNEXT Construction, one of the region’s leading construction firms known for serving cultural and academic institutions.

Initial work will include interior demolition, with an extension of the terrace and landscaping to follow. Every care will be taken to minimize disturbance to Tyler’s immediate neighbors on Painter Road, the release said.

Tyler Arboretum provides a natural sanctuary for visitors interested in horticulture, history, and the natural world. With 650 acres of meadows, wetlands, and unbroken forest, and over 17 miles of hiking trails, Tyler is an important community resource and cultural destination, and is one of the oldest and largest arboreta in the northeastern U.S. For more information, visit tylerarboretum.org, or call 610-566-9134.

Note about cancellation

"Because many of people are snowed in and unable to attend, we have postponed our 'Hammer Swinging' celebration of the Barn renovation for warmer weather. We'll be in touch with a new date and time as soon as we have more details. We thank all our supporters for their enthusiasm for Tyler, for our historic barn, and for our mission as a member of the Media, PA community."

Gary Bloomer
Communications & Publications Manager
Tyler Arboretum