SAINT JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. --Community members and descendants of one of Potato Creek State Park’s earliest farming families are rallying to save a historic red barn they say is at risk of being demolished amid construction of the new Potato Creek State Park Lodge.

Dozens of supporters gathered at the park Saturday, marching about half a mile through the park to call on state officials to halt demolition plans and allow an independent evaluation of the barn’s condition.

The Narragon family, whose relatives built the barn more than a century ago, said they were originally told the structure would remain standing throughout construction of the $100 million lodge project — which includes 120 rooms, a conference center and a water facility. But earlier this year, it was determined by Indiana Department of Natural Resources to tear down the barn, prompting the community’s response.

“We go back there and have our family reunions in that pavilion every year, until they started building the inn,” Dale Narragon said. “I was skeptical when I saw the inn going up.”

Supporters argue the barn is sturdy enough to be repaired or relocated.

“All we’re asking for is a stay of execution, some time to do the study, to get us in the building,” said Todd Zeiger, vice president of Indiana Landmarks. “It’s a fairly simple ask, let us look at it.”

The inn is expected to open in 2027. Original project blueprints included the barn in the final layout.

A local advocacy group, Friends of Potato Creek State Park, is urging residents to contact state officials. The group has compiled a list of agencies and leaders that they believe have the ability to help save the red barn, available here.