Old and New Grain Elevators, Sherman County, Oregon

Old and New Grain Elevators, Sherman County, Oregon

Old and New Grain Elevators, Sherman County, Oregon is part of a growing series of images depicting a historic, wooden grain elevator located in Kent, Oregon, a once robust farming community that today is little more than a crossroads. [see the series]

Concrete and metal grain elevators dot central and eastern Oregon and operate as hubs for farming co-ops. Farmers contribute their grain and in so doing, collectively maintain greater leverage on market rates. These elevators primarily serve large farms because that’s mostly what remains in operation in Oregon today, but this wooden example is part of a tangible legacy of small, family-run ranches and their fight to maintain a uniquely American way of life.

This fascinating building is one of a precious remaining few – most have been disassembled or burned down (often due to arson). Its timbers graduate from as thick as 12”x12” at the base to much thinner as you ascend its elevation, an engineering tactic that enabled great scale. It’s no longer in use – the cement elevator next to it is – but it’s weather-worn and patinated, wooden mosaic and it’s sheer bulk – visible for miles – is quite incredible to behold.

Please check out the series Grain Elevator, Sherman County, Oregon and find out when it’s added to adding me to your watchlist :)

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Old and New Grain Elevators, Sherman County, Oregon belongs to the following groups:

Architectural Photography, Dilapidated Buildings, Farms and Countryside, History, NORTHWEST ARTISTS (U.S.), Ruins, Ancient and Derelict Buildings, Rusty, Crusty and Falling to Bits and United States