BELLECHESTER - In the 1800s when settlers moved west to claim land in the Midwest, they poured their hearts and souls into their new homes and the farmland they were built on. The farming industry has changed significantly over the decades since these homesteads were established.
Now, in the 21st century, the families who are fortunate enough to still own their ancestor’s farms are adapting to new ways of thriving. Pizza farms, micro gardens, pop-up shops, and other creative uses for family farms are becoming more visible as agriculture trends shift. One particularly intriguing use for old barns is offering them as wedding venues.
The Calvin Strauss family farm in Wabasha County has one of those barns. Built in 1869, Cal has spent the past few years transforming their barn from being used as a home for dairy cattle into a charming and welcoming site for couples to say their “I dos” as Red Silo Events.
Just as the original Strauss family members did when they homesteaded this land, Cal and his family have spent countless hours planning the improvements and then tearing out livestock equipment, sawing, sanding, painting, building, decorating and doing everything needed to see this transformation evolve. “Turning this old barn into a place for weddings has been a labor of love,” Strauss said. His background in construction and farming work ethic have been instrumental in seeing these changes occur. “Friends and family members have helped build benches, paint signs, create a Facebook page and website and take care of so many details that have made this dream possible,” he added.
In 2025, the family dedicated to Red Silo Events officially expanded with Cal’s marriage to Tracy which, of course, took place at Red Silo Events. He said, “Moving forward together, we’ve been able to start hosting weddings.” By touring Red Silo Events, it’s easy to see why this charming and historic wedding venue is a comfortable and quaint setting for a bride and groom to gather their families and friends to celebrate their big day.
When asked about the name of this unique wedding venue, Strauss pointed out the original red brick silo attached to the barn as one of the only remaining like it still standing in the area. Although couples can plan an outdoor ceremony under an ivy-covered arbor with rolling hills in the background or an indoor ceremony surrounded by warm glowing lights and barnwood, the red brick silo offers a picturesque back-drop. According to Strauss, “We wanted to create an affordable place where people could come to celebrate events and make new memories.”
Red Silo Events is also available for hosting family gatherings, proms and corporate events. More information can be found at redsiloeventsmn.com.
