The Thumb Octagon Barn is a reflection of team effort, generous contributions and several hours of planning and plain hard work. The formation of the Witch's Hat Depot Museum started from people of the community who did not want to lose such an extravagant building and a historical site from being destroyed in the name of progress or development. Because of this so called progression that will lead to destroying the Thumb Octagon Barn the Friends of the Thumb Octagon Barn Organization was born. It was formed as a rescue effort to keep the barn from being demolished, and restore the barn, house and everything that surrounds it.

Through some generous donations made by people from all over the state of Michigan, the Thumb Octagon Barn started to operate as a site where people from the community can have their place. The barn started to operate as a historical agricultural site for educational means, recreation and entertainment for the citizens of Michigan, Gagetown and for visitors.

The Thumb Octagon Barn now has nearly 800 members from all over the country. Most of the members are dedicated volunteers to help preserve this unique Museum.