Mercer Log House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Mercer Log House
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Front and southern side
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 Location in Ohio
Location in the United States
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| Location | 41 N. 1st St., Fairborn, Ohio |
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| Area | Less than 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| Built | 1799 |
| NRHP reference No. | 81000433 |
| Added to NRHP | October 16, 1981 |
The Mercer Log House is a historic log cabin located in the city of Fairborn, Ohio. It was built around 1799 for the city's first settlers, the Mercer family.
This house is special because it has barely been changed since it was first built. It is one of the best-preserved log cabins from Ohio's early settlement days. Because of its importance, it has been named a historic site.
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History of the Mercer Log House
The First Settlers
Before settlers arrived, local stories say that a Native American village stood where Fairborn is today. In the 1790s, a family named Mercer moved from Virginia to what was then called the Northwest Territory.
The Mercers bought a large piece of land, including the site of the old village. They were the first of several families to settle in the area. By 1800, at least five families lived near what would become Fairborn.
Life in the 1790s
Life was very different for these early settlers. The area was mostly thick forest. The only real road was the one between the cities of Dayton and Springfield.
For travel, people used paths through the woods. They could also use the nearby Mad River to move light goods, but only when the water was high in the spring.
As more people moved in, the community grew. The town of Fairfield (now part of Fairborn) was officially planned out in 1817. By then, the log house property was owned by Robert Mercer.
How the House Was Built
The Mercer family built their log cabin shortly after they arrived. It is believed to have been constructed in 1799. The house sits on a stone foundation.
The design is a great example of the simple, practical style of building from that time. It has a square shape, a large opening for a fireplace, and only a few small windows and doors.
What makes the Mercer Log House so rare is how well it has been preserved. Many old log cabins had new walls or rooms added over the years. But the Mercer cabin's log walls are almost exactly as they were when they were first built.
Why Is the House Important Today?
In 1981, the Mercer Log House was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of places considered important to American history. It was recognized for its historic design.
The house is now owned by the city of Fairborn. It is part of a small park called the Mercer-Smith Historical Park, where visitors can see what life was like for Ohio's first settlers.
Inside the Mercer Log House
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The large fireplace was the center of the home for cooking and warmth.
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A look inside the main room of the Mercer House.
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A simple wooden staircase leads to the upper level.
See also
- Log building
