HISTORY · HISTORICAL MARKER
Dunn/Tirk Log Barn
History
1
The Dunn/Tirk Log Barn is one of the last log structures in the area and a rare example of 19th-century Tarrant County architecture. This double-crib barn uses a dog-run plan, consisting of two log cribs separated by an open, roofed runway for wagons, allowing hay to be unloaded directly from the wagons into the cribs. In this type of structure, the logs typically touched only at the corners, and adobe chinking filled the gaps for weatherproofing. The barn was originally located on property bordered by John McCain and Pleasant Run roads, and its construction has been attributed to pioneer settler William M. Dunn, who farmed the property from 1875 until 1890. Anton and Frances Gadja Tirk acquired the property in 1925 and relocated the barn within the property boundaries, using it for hay storage to support their dairy operations. Roy and Lydia Tirk Alholm lived on the property from 1964 to 2004. The crib to the right is characterized by irregular logs and saddle notches at the corners, while the crib on the left features planked logs joined at the corners by skillfully hewn dovetail notches. The different construction methods between the two cribs may be the result of its relocation and renovation. The barn was fully restored to ensure its preservation and moved to its current location in 2007.
FIND IT
Southlake, Texas
CITY · 14 STOPSExplore Southlake, Texas
Hear every story as you drive
4.8 Stars · 800+ Ratings
© 2026 MainEngine