The Jones Brothers Granite shed sits on a site of 2.8 acres located between the Stevens branch of the Winooski River and Vermont Route 302 with a rail line between the property and the state highway. The granite shed itself is a good example of turn of the century industrial architecture, noted for its open interior space rather than any particular exterior architectural style. There are no exterior or interior decorative elements and, despite its extraordinary mass, would be classified as light timber famed because of the use of minimal structure for maximum space.
While the remaining shed is approximately 27,500 of the original 85,000 square feet due a major fire, it is nevertheless a very good example of industrial architecture as well as an excellent example of a straight granite shed built during a time of tremendous growth in the Barre granite industry. The remaining evidence of the original foundation indicates the immense size of the structure. Interpretation of the complete site as well as the structure and interior layout of the shed and its contents will provide valuable information on the early granite industry in Barre.
A fire in 1988 destroyed the northwest portion of the shed resulting, two years later, in demolition of the portion of the shed that had run along the Stevens Branch, perpendicular to the remaining structure. The footprint of this section remains, as well as various granite cylinders and blocks which are strewn about the grounds. Concrete pads and footings clearly indicate the former structure and an archeological survey would provide additional tangible evidence. Of particular note is a circular foundation, possibly the remains of a "horse sweep," an early round horse-powered derrick used for lifting large blocks of granite. Water power was also employed from the Stevens Branch of the Winooski River directly behind the shed, creating up to 300 horsepower of energy to operate the machine. There is also a concrete pad to the north of the shed, indicating a circular base for another horse or water powered derrick.
