The farm was initially owned by the Dolen family. The house was built in stages, one section at a time, throughout the early 1900's, as exposed floorboards in what is now our kitchen were coated with newspapers from the 1920's. The barns, like others in the area, were built just after Prohibition was enacted, using lumber from the old McCormick distillery in nearby Waldron, after it was forced to close. These were used to protect livestock, store grain and hay, and cure tobacco. The latest owner, "Chinny", was a very colorful character, known throughout Platte County, always available to go coon hunting with his dogs or fishing on the Platte River.
 

 

The farm at that time had decreased in size to its present 33.43 acres. It was in a state of disrepair and neglect. Mice, rats and varmints inhabited the house and barns as renters gave it no care.

 

Over the last 39 years,  the homestead has been given a new life, the buildings and land meticulously repaired and cared for with attention given to preserving the original structures as much as possible. Now, as my time as caretaker of this farm nears its end, I look for another who will continue its legacy and will enjoy, as much as I have, the wonderful years it has given me.