Guests from Randolph and the surrounding area attended “A Gathering in the Barn” in 2024.

The excitement is building as preparations for the fourth annual Gathering in the Barn come together.

Performers and speakers have been lined-up, the menu has been planned and the posters have been printed and hung.

The gathering was the brainchild of hosts Harry and Cathy Uhl of Randolph after the world had opened-up, but was still a bit somber, following the pandemic. Their idea was to open their mid-1850s barn to the public for an evening of praise and patriotic music, brief uplifting messages and food. Within a few weeks and after a lot of work and support from family and friends, the event took place. Some of the guests asked if the special gathering could happen throughout the year. One man told of his amazement at having never heard about the event in the past, not knowing this was the first.

Now that all of the preliminary work is done, it is time to buy the paper products, print the programs, clean the barn, chill the beverages and prepare the food. The musicians are warming up, the soloists and vocal groups are rehearsing and the speakers are planning their brief presentations, all of which change every year, including the menu.

The hosts are excited about new talent, the first trio and some youth involvement. This year’s talent comes from Bemus Point, Jamestown, Fredonia, Cattaraugus, Frewsburg, Ashville and Randolph.

Dinner and music start promptly at 6 p.m. Those attending are asked to bring a lawn chair for seating. Off-road parking and a ramped entryway to the barn are available. The Uhl’s barn is located at 2467 Vollentine Road in Randolph.