Save The Yoder Barn

The Yoder Dairy barn and silos were a local landmark of Newport News, Virginia, for decades. In 1995 the dairy farm's acreage was rezoned for commercial use, and the barn and other farm landmarks were moved to a nearby plot. The barn was converted to a performing arts space by the Yoder Preservation Trust. It hosted numerous theatrical, comedy, musical, and other events.

March 2007 Yoder Preservation Trust donated the historic Yoder Barn to CNU. The gift, then valued at $4,000,000, was to assure the long term survival of the landmark structure and greatly expand the barns use as a performance and gathering center.

In March 2016, 9 years after being gifted the Yoder Barn CNU asked the General Assembly allow them the freedom to sell the venue and keep 100% of the proceeds. That amendment did not pass. Again in January 2017 they are seeking the ability to sell the Yoder Barn with its value now at $4,950,700. The Daily Press reported that CNU requested Del. David Yancey R-Newport News propose a budget amendment again allowing the sale of the venue be added to the budget. Tom Kramer, CNU spokesperson, said CNU is seeking the authority to sell the property because it wants the ability to act on a future opportunity if it benefits the students and the local community.

The saving of the Yoder Barn was a labor of love not only by the Yoder Family but also by all the community people who donated their time, talents and financial support over the years. The Yoder Preservation Trust, a 501 C3 non-profit, was established to preserve the Barn as a historical reminder of the history of the Mennonite community as well as the diverse community of Newport News. The Mission Statement indicates the desire they had to preserve this venue for all to enjoy.

The statement was: “The Yoder Barn serves our culturally diverse community as a gathering place for enrichment of the human soul and spirit through quality, wholesome events in a unique, historic setting.”

At the gifting ceremony, CNU President Paul Tribble was quoted as saying “I know there must be mixed emotions. We will cherish this sacred place.”

There were no provisions made by Yoder Preservation Trust for the selling of the Barn because it was a gift to the Commonwealth of Virginia and strings attached were not possible. It was left to CNU and the entire community with CNU as its steward. Personal gain from this historic venue was never the intent. If CNU is no longer able or willing to continue the commitment it made, then we feel that the property should be turned over to another public entity that would be willing to continue its preservation.