Some local farmers were poor and built their homes using the rough-hewn trees on their farms. Christian Detweiler and his family built this home about 1883, roughly the same time as the wealthier Stimpson family built the nice white frame house rebuilt across the field to the east. Detweiler was a farmer and a carpenter, as well as a Mennonite minister. He helped others build their homes as well as the local Mennonite church built in 1885 which is still standing one mile west of US-31 on Brutus Road. Christian, his wife Susan, and generations of relatives are buried behind the church.

The farmhouse was moved from Brutus, 13 miles south. Restoration includes preserving the home’s historic structure, wall coverings, the bead-board in the eating room and period furnishings. Family descendants are assisting with interpretation of the family’s history including returning the original bed.

Originally this house had only an extended stovepipe through the roof to serve as a chimney. This often caused fires. There was always a ladder and pails kept near for the family's protection. In case of fire, the children were taught to draw water from the well with the always ready buckets, and carry them up the ladder to their mother waiting above. She always succeeded in putting out the fire with their help.