The Dorothy Thompson Memorial Common was established in 2001 by the Barnard Silver Lake Association, a non-profit organization, in memory of the renowned journalist and one of Barnard's outstanding citizens during the years 1928-1962. It provides an open space in the center of Barnard where residents and visitors can stroll, relax, and enjoy the view of the lake. During the winter, it is used for sledding and tobogganing and gives snowmobilers access to the lake. The Barnard Silver Lake Association maintains the Common.