Barn Fire on the Canning Family Farm

The fire is out.  The smoke has cleared.  Clean up has been completed.  All that remains is the broken foundation of the original barn on the Canning family farm. 

Just after midnight the morning of June 6, 2021, three strangers drove past the Canning farm and saw flames rising up through the windows of a large barn on the property.  After calling 911, two of these people ran to wake the homeowners, Andy and Kelli Canning, while the other one took off towards the burning barn and opened gates to release some of the trapped animals.  After realizing the barn was on fire, Andy rushed outside to help free the rest of the cattle while Kelli also called 911 and got their three kids to safety, across the road to Andy's parents' house. 

Andy's father, Rollie Canning, grew up on this farm, on which this barn was built in 1937 by his father James Rolland Canning, Sr.  For almost a century, this barn served as a shelter for cows, horses, pigs, and chickens.  It stored hay for the animals, as well as tools, equipment and machinery for the farmers.  Decades ago dances and after prom parties were held in it.  Family reunions have been based around it.  Childhood memories have been made in it year after year after year.  And for the immediate Canning family members, it was a piece of history that represented the legacy of the original owner, Rolland Sr., whose love of cattle was passed down to three generations of Canning sons.   

Except for the memories, all of that was lost in the fire on June 6th, including some of the livestock, saddles for the horses, hay and straw bales, and countless supplies.  Additionally, another building on the property sustained heat and smoke damage.

Above all, the entire extended Canning family is thankful to God for keeping Andy, Kelli, and their kids free from physical injury that day.  With God's love, the emotional pain will heal over time. 

Many family members and friends, as well as strangers, have helped in so many ways already, and the Canning family is so grateful.  Others have asked how else they can help support at this time, which has brought the creation of this Go Fund Me account.  After insurance, it is estimated that the remaining cost to rebuild the barn will be over $100,000.  We are hoping to help Rollie, his son Andy, his grandson Matthew rebuild the barn by raising at least a portion of the amount not covered by insurance. 

The following photos are from the Canning family farm prior to the barn fire.   


Three generations of Canning farmers: Rollie, his grandson Matthew and his son Andy. 

Andy and Kelli's daughter, Lainey, with one of her horses in the barn (thankfully, Lainey's horses were not harmed in the fire). 

Andy and Kelli's youngest daughter, Olivia. 

Cattle feeding on hay inside the former barn.

Thank you for reading this Go Fund Me.