The History of Our Barn
Our Barn has been has had many different uses since it was built in 1905. From livestock to celebrating life’s biggest moments. Can you believe one space has been used for both?!
The Barn
Our Papa, Maris Doster, wrote this on the history of our Barn. He was meticulous when it came to keeping records. It felt like he was a living encyclopedia! We miss him and are so grateful for all the things he left behind that have given us the opportunity to learn more about our family farms history.
1905: The Beginning
The Barn was constructed in 1905 for the second generation of the Doster/Hasselbring family, led by August Hasselbring. Crafted with repurposed wood and salvaged pieces from other structures on the property, the Barn’s eclectic design featured distinctive red sheeting on the ceiling. Originally, it served as a functional space to house cattle, horses, and hay, embodying the hardworking spirit of rural Iowa. It was August's Shorthorn Cattle and Duroc Jersey Hog business, "Violet Hill Farm," where our namesake comes from.
Fourth Generation: Adapting to the Times
By the time our Papa, Maris Doster (4th generation), took over, the Barn evolved with the farm’s needs. Horses gave way to tractors, but the Barn remained a vital hub for cattle and hay storage. Papa’s practical updates ensured the Barn stayed true to its roots while embracing modern farming.
Our Papa Maris and Grandma Joan celebrating Papa’s 90th birthday in 2019.
Fifth Generation: A New Era with Sheep
Our dad, Steve Doster (5th generation), brought his passion to the Barn, renovating it to house sheep. For many years, he raised and showed Doster Suffolks, earning pride in his “Star Maker” as Grand Champion—a title he is still proud of today!
Transition to Storage
After the sheep did their damage, the Barn underwent another transformation. The pens were removed, and a new concrete floor was poured. Modern white steel covering was placed on top of the original red-sheeted ceilings, and two sliding doors were added at each end, allowing the Barn to store tractors and other equipment (amongst many other things).
2014: A New Chapter as an Event Venue
In 2014, our brother Andrew and his wife Rachel washed out the Barn, fixed the floor, and added a porch. At 100+ years old, the Barn hosted a wedding for the sixth generation of the Doster family. What began as something just for us quickly became something more—as word spread, we found ourselves opening the barn doors for weddings and gatherings for friends, neighbors, and extended family.
2018: A Beautiful Update
In 2018, the west doors got a beautiful update. Our late uncle, Daniel Crimmins, crafted and installed the double doors and windows you see today. His careful, skilled work frames the quintessential Iowa sunset in the most perfect way.
Today: Violet Hill Farm
Today, the Barn stands as a beloved venue, having hosted dozens of unforgettable gatherings, including four of the six Doster kids’ wedding (6th generation). Inspired by August’s business, James and Molly (Doster) Arbaugh have seized the opportunity to launch their business, “Violet Hill Farm,” breathing new life into our family’s history. We’re thrilled to invite you to experience the Barn’s history and charm—join us to create your own story at Violet Hill Farm!
Interested in hosting your next event at Violet Hill Farm? Submit your inquiry today!
