Heckman Log Cabin
Step into history as you learn of the trials and tribulations of early pioneers that settled the Black Swamp. We welcome visitors to tour the cabin during special events, open houses, and by appointment.
See glimpses of pioneer life as portrayed by period living historians as they perform everyday tasks and tell stories of Elmore's heritage. Please refer to the EHS event fliers for special demonstrations and activities at the log cabin, including period games, gardening, cooking, and daily chores.
Open During the Portage River Festival
Please call (419) 862-5118
for scheduled tours
The Heckman Log Cabin was home to the Heckman's since the 1890's when they arrived in the Genoa/Elmore area. It was located on Nissen Road and later moved to Ory Park. In 1983 it was donated to the Elmore Historical Society by Mildred Magsig.
The cabin was built by the Stauffer Family in the 1860s, sold to the Butlers and later the Heckmans. Mattie Heckman was born in the cabin on February 13, 1893 and lived in there with her brother Clarence until their deaths in the 1970s. They were the children of John and Julia (Ganon) Heckman. Mattie was an elementary school teacher at the Harris-Elmore School for 39 years and had spent 12 years in the rural Elmore schools.
When the home reached the hands of the Elmore Historical Society, the siding was stripped and an elaborate flagstone fireplace and porch were added. It has been furnished with artifacts from the Heckman Family and period pieces that would have been used during the years that the Heckman's lived there.
Also stop in to the Heckman Log Cabin for a holiday treat as the house is decorated for Santa's visit!
Santa comes every December to see all his good little boys and girls as they tell him their Christmas wishes. Come Join Us!