History

The History of Francine’s Log Cabin

A Labor of Love, Restored by Hand and Heart

The story of Francine’s Log Cabin begins in the early 1800s, when its original log structure was built in Brandenburg, Kentucky. Centuries later, the cabin was carefully disassembled and transported to its new home on a scenic ridge in Madison, Indiana. There, it underwent a meticulous restoration process—each log power-washed, missing pieces replaced, and the structure lovingly reassembled with care and precision.

Adding to its character, the front section of the cabin once served as a corn crib from the early 1900s, sourced from Jefferson County, Indiana. The striking fireplace, crafted from massive Indian fieldstones, was salvaged from one of the county’s original “mud and straw” homes, offering a tangible connection to the region’s early settlers.

Every detail in the cabin was chosen with intention. The kitchen cabinets were handcrafted, complete with traditional wooden peg hinges. The metal roof and plaster walls were artfully reproduced to resemble materials over 150 years old. Even the flooring, stairs, and interior walls feature reclaimed wood, preserving the rustic authenticity of the original design.

The entire restoration, including the cabin, wood shed, landscaping, and pond, was a four-year project, fueled by passion and an eye for detail. Each antique and vintage piece inside has been personally curated from Francine’s decades of collecting, making this space not only historically rich but also deeply personal.

We invite you to step back in time and experience this extraordinary “work of art.”
Francine’s Log Cabin is more than a place to stay. It’s a one-of-a-kind lodging experience that honors the past while embracing the present.