he Story Behind “Barn Stars”

A Familiar Sight Across the Countryside

Have you ever passed an old barn or farmhouse and noticed a large, five-pointed star above the door or in the gable? Rustic and faded from years in the sun, these stars still catch the eye. You’ll see them across rural areas, especially in the Eastern United States.

Many people wonder: are they purely decorative, or do they carry meaning?

Names and Origins

Barn stars have existed for generations. While most call them “barn stars,” other names include Amish stars, hex signs, or barn quilts. The terminology varies by region, and sometimes these designs differ slightly.