Gagetown's landmark Octagon Barn, heralded by the community, was constructed between 1922 and 1924 by local banker and sawmill owner James Purdy. The 8,764-square-foot structure earned a listing on the Michigan Registry of Historic Places in 1977. Built from timber harvested from Purdy's land and cut at his sawmill, the eight-sided structure was designed for raising Angus cattle. Its interesting features include an overhead system for loading and unloading hay. As the farmstead hub, the building hosted its share of barn dances and courting escapades over the years.
Following Purdy's death in 1950, the farmstead eventually fell into the hands of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Learning the state was only interested in the acreage, citizens organized a "Save the Barn" campaign in 1994 to preserve the iconic building. The first barn festival was held that same year to raise money for barn restoration. Later called Friends of the Thumb's Octagon Barn, the group of citizens were granted control of 8.2 acres and the farmstead buildings for preservation and development as a museum. On September 14, 1996 the festival continued debuting as Family Days.
Barn festival participants walk through the Michigan Thumb's farm world of yesteryear. In addition to the eight-sided barn, museum structures include Purdy's Craftsman style, 15-room house; the farm powerhouse with its vintage battery system; a garage housing a 1929 Dodge vehicle; a sawmill displaying early logging and woodworking tools; a one-room schoolhouse relocated from Sebewaing; a sugar shack for demonstrating syrup making; a blacksmith shop; a grain elevator; and a cider mill. Museum buildings host related demonstrations during the festival weekend.
The weekend-long Family Days Festival begins with a patriotic moment with the raising of the American flag and singing of the national anthem. Each year's celebration focuses on a different rural theme, but country fun is a constant element. Upwards of 15,000 people attend the event to explore the historic complex and enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides and blacksmith demonstrations; see antique tractor and engine displays; and enjoy the parade and barn dance. In addition to traditional craft demonstrations like wagon-wheel rug weaving, craft and antique vendors set up shop at the large flea market. Because the festival continues to serve as a fundraiser for preservation efforts, there is a nominal admission charge.
