The story of this property stretches back over a century. Jim Stewart’s great-grandfather purchased the land in 1908, where a small cabin originally stood — a cabin that still stands at the back of the property to this day

I’ve been to the bungalow Jim is currently restoring more than once, and each visit gives me a deeper appreciation for its history. Built not long after the original cabin, the bungalow was constructed with lumber harvested right from the land it sits on, and walking through it now, you can feel the connection between the house, the property, and the family who has now taken on the job of caring for it again.

During my visits to the property, Jim walked me around and showed me all the work he has accomplished mostly on his own. He’s rebuilt the front brick pillars and the original front porch swing, and brought in a truckload of fill to level the driveway on both sides — just a few of the many updates he’s completed single-handedly. Scattered thoughtfully around the yard are remnants of the past: old manual farm plows, a few bicycle parts, and an old tractor, all uncovered through Jim’s careful, hands-on renovation.

The bungalow itself did not initially have running water or plumbing, but a septic tank was recently installed in 2025, marking another important step toward modernizing the home while maintaining its historic character.

Beyond the buildings, Jim showed me the family cemetery plot just up the road, where his great-grandfather is buried — a reminder of the deep personal connection he has to this land.

This ongoing restoration is a fascinating look into the dedication and care required to preserve a historic homestead. Each artifact and detail tells a story, and Jim Stewart is ensuring those stories are preserved for years to come. I can’t wait to return and see the next phase of progress on this remarkable property.