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Quick answer: Episode 95 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, “If This Barn Could Talk,” features George Ravell and his 1909 Ravell Centennial Farm in Howard City, Michigan. The episode, produced by Duane Weed, explores the barn’s history and serves as a tribute to George, who passed away on June 7, 2024. His farm achieved Centennial Farm status in March 2024, celebrating 100 years of continuous family ownership.
Key Takeaways
- Ravell Centennial Farm, located in Howard City, Michigan, was built in 1917 by George Ravell’s grandfather and nephew.
- The barn evolved from housing animals to an auto body shop and the birthplace of Universal Magnetics.
- George Ravell, featured in the podcast, passed away on June 7, 2024, at the age of 86.
- The Ravell Centennial Farm achieved Centennial Farm status in March 2024, marking 100 years of continuous family ownership.
- Episode 95 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast serves as a tribute to George Ravell and his family’s legacy in the community.
If this barn could talk – Ravell Centennial Farm episode 95
Ravell Centennial Farm: In a poignant and heartfelt episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, host and producer Duane Weed presents “If This Barn Could Talk,” featuring the story of George Ravell and his cherished 1909 Ravell Centennial Farm on Amy School Road in Howard City. This episode, number 95, serves as both a history of the barn and a touching tribute to George, who passed away on June 7, 2024.Ravell Centennial Farm-The Barn’s Storied Past
Built in 1917 by George’s grandfather and nephew, the barn initially served as a place to house animals and store hay. Over the decades, it evolved, becoming an auto body shop and the birthplace of Universal Magnetics in the late 1970s. The company later expanded into a pole barn built right next to the original structure.A Family Legacy
The interview, conducted in August 2023, delves into more than just the barn’s history—it captures the essence of the Ravell family’s journey. George reminisces about his time working for GE in Edmore and shares his memories of Montcalm Community College’s early days. His reflections offer a glimpse into the past, highlighting the changes and developments within the community.Ravell Centennial Farm Status
In March 2024, George’s farm achieved Centennial Farm status, marking 100 years of continuous family ownership. This milestone was a source of pride for George and his family, symbolizing their enduring legacy and deep roots in the community.A Bittersweet Tribute
Episode 95 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast is bittersweet for Duane Weed, as it honors the memory of his friend George Ravell. Although George did not live to see the final video, the episode now stands as a legacy to the Ravell family and a testament to George’s life and contributions.Remembering George Ravell
Duane Weed’s tribute to George in this special episode is heartfelt and sincere. George’s stories and experiences are preserved for future generations, ensuring that his legacy lives on. As Duane poignantly states, “RIP George, and thank you for your service.” George Ravell Obituary 5/21/1938 – 6/7/2024 Howard City George Ravell, age 86, of Howard City, Michigan went home to be with his Lord and Savior on June 7, 2024. He was born May 21, 1938, in Buffalo, NY, the son of Oliver Friend Ravell and Dorothy Cleo (Baisch), and raised by his grandparents, Henry and Amanda Baisch, on the family farm. In 1956, George married the former Janet Hackbardt with whom he shared 64 years of devoted marriage until her passing on December 19, 2020. George proudly served his country for four years as an electronics specialist in the United States Airforce, where he achieved the rank of Airman Second Class. After his service, he pursued a career as a business owner and entrepreneur with a passion for magnetics and rental property management. A man of many talents, George loved traveling, singing in the Schubert Male Chorus, and participating in the choir at Bethel Lutheran Church. He treasured spending time with family and friends. As an active and dedicated member of Bethel Lutheran Church, George lived out his faith and will be remembered for ministering to and mentoring countless young men within his community. George is preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife, Janet Ravell; and his daughters, Dorothy Ravell and Eileen Ravell. He will be lovingly remembered by his children: George (Carol) Ravell, Katherine (Sam) Salton, and Laura (John) Meyering; grandchildren: Charles (Becky) Salton, Sarah (Matt) Huedepohl, Andrea (Patrick) Snyder, Bayley (Andy) Taylor, David (Kelly) Meyering, Olivia Ravell, and Henry Ravell; along with 8 great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law: George Hackbardt, Dan (Suzi) Deurloo, and Dave Deurloo; and many nieces and nephews. SOURCE: https://obits.mlive.com/us/obituaries/grandrapids/name/george-ravell-obituary?id=55300999ÂTune In
Join us for this special feature of the Discover Montcalm Podcast and listen to “If This Barn Could Talk.” Hear the rich history of the Ravell family and their barn, and remember a man who was not only a part of his community but also a cherished friend. For more stories like George’s, visit the Discover Montcalm Podcast website and follow us on social media to stay updated on new episodes and community highlights.Discover Montcalm Podcast
- Website:Â discovermontcalmpodcast.com
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- YouTube:Â Discover Montcalm Podcast Channel
If this barn could talk - Ravell Centennial Farm episode 95
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Sources & Methodology
This post is authored by Duane Weed, the host and producer of the Discover Montcalm Podcast and the founder of DW Video & Multimedia, LLC, established in 1984. With nearly four decades of experience in video production, digital arts education, and local community storytelling, Duane brings a unique blend of technical expertise and a deep personal connection to the narratives he shares. His work is dedicated to preserving and highlighting the rich history and vibrant stories of Montcalm County, Michigan, ensuring authenticity and a firsthand perspective.
The content presented here is based on a recorded interview conducted by Duane Weed with George Ravell in August 2023 for the Discover Montcalm Podcast, episode 95. This narrative combines George Ravell’s personal recollections with historical details of the Ravell Centennial Farm. Key factual claims, such as the farm’s Centennial Farm status, are verifiable through official programs. The obituary for George Ravell, detailing his life and passing, serves as a primary source for biographical information.
References:
- George Ravell Obituary: mlive.com
- Michigan Centennial Farm Program: Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD)
- Discover Montcalm Podcast: discovermontcalmpodcast.com
Originally published: July 15, 2024
Beyond the Ravell Farm: Preserving Michigan’s Rural Legacy
The Ravell Centennial Farm’s story is a testament to enduring family roots and the rich agricultural history woven into the fabric of Howard City, Michigan. Achieving Centennial Farm status, as the Ravell family did, connects them to a proud tradition supported by the official Michigan Centennial Farm Program. This initiative, managed by the Historical Society of Michigan in partnership with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, recognizes farms that have been continuously owned by the same family for 100 years or more, celebrating the perseverance and contributions of Michigan’s farming families. It’s a vital program that honors our state’s agricultural heritage, ensuring that the stories of places like the Ravell Farm are acknowledged and cherished.
The barn itself, a silent witness to over a century of change, also highlights the broader need for barn preservation. Organizations across Michigan are dedicated to saving these iconic structures, recognizing their their architectural significance and their role in telling the story of our rural past. These efforts often involve local historical societies, like those found throughout Montcalm County, which diligently work to document, preserve, and share the unique narratives of their communities. By supporting such initiatives, we help safeguard the physical and cultural landmarks that define places like Howard City, Michigan, ensuring that future generations can connect with the land and the legacies of families like the Ravells.
