Terry Log House is the oldest standing structure in the county Probably the first thing passersby notice when they pass the Desha County Museum grounds is the Terry Log House.
Built in the late 1840's, it is the oldest structure in Desha County. The two story log house was originally located on Oakwood Bayou, four miles east of Dumas. The dog-trot style house was dismantled and moved in 1980 from Oakwood Bayou to the museum grounds.
Each log had to be numbered and reconstructed at the museum. It took about two years for the pre-Civil War dwelling to be put back together. It was completely restored by November 1984.
"The Terry log house, that was built about 1850, is the oldest structure in the county and it’s irreplaceable," said Director Peggy Chapman.
"Its just an incredible structure; it would have been a wonderful house in 1850."
The house is furnished with authentic antiques.
Inside, people can see a fireplace in each section, beds, family photos, a blanket chest, clothing closet, a piano, spinning wheel and a variety of everyday items and furniture that could be found during the time period.
The house also features a loft, which is not open to the public.
The log kitchen of a typical log house was separate from the main house for two reasons. One was to keep the heat out the house and the other was to prevent the danger of a fire. The kitchen features a set kitchen table, chairs, a spinning wheel, cooking utensils and cast iron cookware. - TGH
