Once harvested, tobacco leaves were placed on stakes and then hung across large poles from the ceiling down to cure or dry and preserve the leaves. Curing was accomplished in a variety of ways, including heated metal pipes or flues, wood smoke, air, or sun. Maryland tobacco was air-cured, so barns were built with slats that could be opened to allow for optimal air flow. After four to eight weeks the tobacco was cured and ready to be graded. Leaf color, size, texture, and position on the stalk were all used to sort tobacco into grades. The leaves were then tied together in bundles or hands and packed into a hogshead barrel by a tobacco prize to be taken to market. Originally located on property previously owned by John J. Lerch III in Gambrills, Maryland, this tobacco barn is believed to have been built around 1910. Because of the development of a recreational park on the property, the barn was relocated to Kinder Farm Park in August 1998. Given the extensive damage, only the inside framework of the original barn could be salvaged. The frame was kept in order by attaching small numbered tags, some of which can still be seen inside the barn. New siding was milled from rough-cut yellow poplar and galvanized steel was used for the roof. The barn was completed in March 1999.