“An atypical log cabin in the Carolina upcountry.”
City Directories and History: The historic buildings survey team, recording historic houses in Newberry County, suggested this house was constructed in ca. 1805-10. Though the preservation group that has studied the structure can’t agree on every point, they do now agree that the cabin has not been moved and that is is totally intact. Noteworthy, the stairs remain in their original position, the beaded clapboard is original, and approximately 80% of the nails used in the structure are handmade.
KIBLER CABIN – VIDEO
Attributed to John Kibler, (died 1829) who is buried across from the cabin, see his land plat below. “This cabin is one of, if not, the area’s oldest remaining cabins.” (State Preservation Report – 1983)
It appears likely that the new owners remodeled the house in ca. 1830, adding the extensive use of the pineapple wallpaper.
Kibler Cabin in 1983 – Courtesy of the SC Dept. of Archives
In early 2016, Roots and Recall’s founders: Wade B. Fairey, Sr., and Rusty Robinson, were asked by the Palmetto Trust for Historic Preservation via Mike Bedenbaugh’s invitation, to review the architectural & construction elements of the cabin. Numbers of local historians had long known of this cabin but until recently, had limited access. The visit ended in R&R’s helping uncover an amazing 18th century dwelling. The cabin, one of the earliest from the upcountry S.C. region, represents a piece of architecture showcasing the evolution of Carolina’s architectural heritage. Of the thousands of structures studied, this dwelling is one of the most remarkable. It’s evolution and complete historic breakdown is underway by a number of professionals and a full written report will be posted upon completion.
BLOG LINKS: by contributing author Michael Bedenbaugh
Image of the Kibler Cabin in 2016 – Courtesy of the Palmetto Trust for Historic Preservation
As of now, all we can definitely state, is that the cabin began as a unusual combination of timber frame construction and log additions to the second floor and around what was once a massive stone chimney. At some later date, it was extended and heavily updated to resemble a more “finished” dwelling. It is easily to speculate on the history of the dwelling but until paint and nail analysis is completed, there is little additional data to share. But enjoy seeing the images associated with this cabin. The craftsmanship displayed by the artisans is extremely good work and the historical details are quite extraordinary.
The From the Porch blog posts on the Kibler Cabin have been extremely well received by R&R’s users. You can see each by visiting the R&R home page and accessing the blog posts. Also see R&R’s video series at: From the Heart Video
Stay Connected
Explore history, houses, and stories across S.C. Your membership provides you with updates on regional topics, information on historic research, preservation, and monthly feature articles. But remember R&R wants to hear from you and assist in preserving your own family genealogy and memorabilia.
Visit the Southern Queries – Forum to receive assistance in answering questions, discuss genealogy, and enjoy exploring preservation topics with other members. Also listed are several history and genealogical researchers for hire.
User comments welcome — post at the bottom of this page.
KIBLER FAMILY – TOO
Misc. images of the work being done by the trust under the leadership of Mike Bedenbaugh, Ex. Director.
Please enjoy this structure and all those listed in Roots and Recall. But remember each is private property. So view them from a distance or from a public area such as the sidewalk or public road.
Do you have information to share and preserve? Family, school, church, or other older photos and stories are welcome. Send them digitally through the “Share Your Story” link, so they too might be posted on Roots and Recall.
Thanks!
IMAGE GALLERY
User comments always welcome - please post at the bottom of this page.
This is the home of my 4th great-grandparents, Johann (John) Jacob Kibler and his wife, Nancy Farr Kibler. I’m so excited to see that it’s being restored. The Kibler family history can be found on the Dutch Fork Genealogy site.
Saw the photos of the painted areas of the interior. Reminded me of the Chesser-Williams House in Gwinnett County, Georgia. That house had decorative painted areas in the “parlor.” That home was recently moved and preserved by the County and local preservationists. Thanks R&R for a fabulous story about SC families and homes!!
Thanks for the information. I love this website and hope to learn more as times goes by.
I am also a descendant of the Kiblers, Bedenbaughs, Wicker, Mills and many others. My maiden name is Monica Ann Mills . I wish I knew the origin of Archibald Mills. I am at a standstill with that. I know he married Rachael Bedenbaugh, but the Mills further back eludes me. Does anyone have any idea? I sure would appreciate any info. Thank you, I love that the Kibler house has not been torn down and all the work everyone has contributed!
We have posted your request to R&R, thank you and we hope others will be of assistance!