Patty, if there's a next time I think that the 50 gallon plastic barrels are wider than 24", maybe about 30". The 30 gallon barrels are probably about 24", I'd guess. I could be wrong, been know to happen a time or two....
I've bought ued 50 gallon barrels for $10 before but now get them from a dairy supply business near where I rent a chestnut orchard for free. I believe they sell iodine and other supplies in them and just want to get rid of them and place them out by the street, 4 or more at a time, for the taking. I hear there are some dairies there in WI, though we've got you beat! :P
Let us know how they work for you.
Harvey