The Historic John P. Furber Farm Project Receives MBFC’s VetLoan Advantage Rebate

Minnesota Business Finance Corporation (MBFC) is honored to present Wayne and Angi Butt, the owners of The Historic John P. Furber Farm, our VetLoan Advantage rebate check for $3,000.  MBFC is the only Certified Development Company in Minnesota to offer a rebate to business owners that are active or retired members of military service.

Wayne is a disabled veteran that served 20 years in the US Navy and the MN Army National Guard.  He retired at the rank of First Sergeant (E-8.)  After his honorable discharge from the Navy, Wayne has been working in the IT field.  He and his wife, Angi acquired the John P. Furber Farm in Cottage Grove in 2010 with plans to convert the barn to an event center.   After 160 years, this was only the third time in history that the farm changed hands.

John P. Furber was one of Cottage Grove’s founding fathers.  In 1850, he built an historic Italianate home on the property where it still stands today.  In 2013, the 1947 Gothic Arched-Roof Barn was place on the Historic Register and the City of Cottage Grove approved the project to renovate the barn into an event center.  Wayne and Angi’s goal for the property was to restore the barn and put it back into productive use for the community.

The barn boasts over 8,000 square feet, and can hold up to 500 guests.  There is an additional 3,000 square foot addition that includes separate bride and groom suites and the restrooms.  For wedding ceremonies, there is an outdoor area with seating that overlooks the peaceful countryside.  The Historic John P. Furber Farm has hosted many weddings, a high school prom, and several community events.  Wayne and Angi strongly believe in sharing this beautiful facility with the community and work to assist non-profits in the area with their meetings and celebrations. For more information please visit their website here.

Wayne and Angi proudly hang a large American flag in the loft area of the Barn.  MBFC thanks Wayne for his service to our country. For additional information or to inquire about MBFC’s VetLoan Advantage Rebate program please contact your MBFC Business Development Officer today.