Information & history on rear of plaque:
A farmer chose stone over wood for his barn only if his pockets were deep enough to pay skilled masons.   Later in the 1800's,  stone construction would actually become cheaper than wood in many areas because virtually all trees were being converted to charcoal for iron making.   Although no safer from fire,  (it was the contents that would ignite and burn along with the roof) a stone barn would generally outlast a wood one,  and was a mark of prestigue in some communities.   Additions in wood commonly found on stone barns indicate increases in prosperity or changes in farm technology over the years.   Note the "loophole" vents which flare on the inside to create an outward air flow.

Information & history on rear of plaque:
The shaker Barn came early in the wave of agricultural and architectural innovation sweeping America during the 19th century,  yet the Shaker's traditional belief that the circle was a "perfect" form also influenced the unusual building shape.   It was said that a round barn could "keep the devil from hiding in the corners".   For it's day,  this example was large (90' in diameter),  as well as technologically advanced.   Inside the 30" thick stone walls,  a wagon way encircles the lofty hay mow,  while at the very center,  and air shaft climbs 55' to the cupola,  simultaneously venting the livestock level and lowering temperatures in the hay to reduce risk from spontaneous combustion.