Just outside of St. Paul, a barn with deep roots and even deeper meaning sits at the center of a dream that started nearly 25 years ago. Today, it’s home to a one-of-a-kind handmade shop, but its story is stitched with far more than fabric — this barn is sewn together with faith, family, and the hard work of the Hubers.
It all started in 2001. Shirley Huber, a lifelong sewing lover, had more creativity than her home could hold. “I just wanted a space to share the things I loved making,” she recalled. At the same time, her husband Brian was considering tearing down the old barn to make room for bigger farm equipment. But Shirley had another vision.
“Why not renovate it?” she suggested. “Let’s turn it into a shop — somewhere people can come, browse, and enjoy handmade items.” What could’ve been another pile of lumber on a burn pile instead became a new chapter for their family farm.
The renovation wasn’t glamorous, but it was filled with love. The project required power washing, scrubbing, patching, and concrete pouring — much of it done by their own family. At first, only half of the lower level was open, but eventually the entire first floor welcomed customers eager to see Shirley’s creations.
In 2010, the dream got even bigger.
Shirley launched the first Fall Gathering, inviting other vendors to join her for a day of handmade goods and community.
“Back then, everyone was outside,” she remembered. “Now, thanks to Brian’s tool shed, we’ve got room for vendors inside too.”
The show is held each year on the Saturday before Labor Day from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., drawing folks from across the region in search of one-of-a-kind treasures.
“Our customers know they’re going to find something special,” said Shirley. “It’s not mass-produced — it’s made with heart.”
Behind the scenes, it’s a full-blown family affair. Their oldest is always on call for tech support. Daughters Kylie and Brianna help with open houses and events. Daughter-in-law Melissa takes charge of pictures and social media. Son and sons-in-law Seth, Justin, and Jon tackle event setup and heavy lifting.
And the eight grandkids? They’re part of the magic too, buzzing around the barn and giving the whole place that unmistakable family feel.
Shirley gives credit where she believes it’s due. “This wouldn’t have happened without the Lord,” she said. “Every good thing, every friend I’ve made through the shop, every moment of support during hard times — it all comes from Him. If anyone praises what I’ve done, I just point up. He made it possible.”
The barn itself carries history in every board. Built in 1940, it once housed dairy cows by Brian’s grandfather, Glen Huber. When Shirley and Brian moved to the farmstead in 1986, the barn served briefly as a farrowing house for pigs before evolving, once again, into the handmade haven it is today.
Shirley’s shop is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appointment at 5827 W. County Road 700 N, St. Paul, IN 47272. For more information on events like the Fall Gathering and seasonal open houses, follow along on Facebook or call 765-525-6249.
What started as a dream in Shirley’s heart has become a cherished part of the community — a place where past and present meet, where handmade meets heartfelt, and where a barn built for cows now celebrates creativity, connection, and the beauty of tradition.
Fall Gathering
Aug. 30 | 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Enjoy the day shopping on the hilltop for fall decor. Many artisans will offer handcrafted items, and other vendors will offer their picks of treasures they have found just for this show. There will also be plenty of food goodies to enjoy or take home. You won’t be disappointed! Bring a friend, and maybe a truck.
