Richard K. Cleek

About the Author

Richard K. Cleek is a seasoned historian and preservationist with a deep-rooted passion for America's rural heritage. Drawing from decades of fieldwork across the continent, he has dedicated his career to documenting the architectural legacy of farms and homesteads that shaped the nation's agrarian past. In his seminal work, The Old Barn Book: A Field Guide to North American Barns & Other Farm Structures, Cleek offers an accessible yet authoritative guide, blending meticulous research with vivid illustrations to help enthusiasts identify and appreciate these enduring icons. His writing bridges the gap between scholarly analysis and practical insight, inspiring readers to explore and preserve the vanishing landscapes of rural America. Cleek's expertise extends to lectures and consultations on historic preservation, ensuring that the stories embedded in these structures endure for future generations.