In 1873 Robert Tinker built a three-story Swiss-style Barn to house chickens, dairy cows and the family's carriage. In 1958 the building burned to the ground. Forty years later, in need of space for educational programs, exhibits, and storage space, the Museum undertook the reconstruction of the Tinker Barn.

The Museum used historic photographs, diary entries, archaeological data, and recycled lumber to reconstruct the building. Today the Tinker Barn and Visitor Center houses the Museum's reception area and gift shop, a multipurpose room with space for special exhibits, programs, activities, and meetings.