About the Hanson House at Big Creek

Our little homeschool family recently had the opportunity to tour the Hanson House at Big Creek, and it was indeed a positive experience. The Hanson family lived in The Hanson House, a historic home in the heart of Big Creek. Preserved to maintain its appearance from the 1880s and known as its 3rd phase of construction. They built the house in 1856, just four years before my father’s farmhouse.

Stepping inside the house transported us back in time. Antique furniture, decor, and artifacts fill the interior, offering a glimpse into life in the late 19th & early 20th century. From the parlor to the bedrooms, every room in the house is full of fascinating history. This home is considered the most significant architectural find in Door County. It is one of only three of the Norwegian scribe-fit sval log houses in the United States. The fact it resides in its original location lends even more importance to preserving its history. 

One of the tour’s highlights was learning about the Hanson family. The family (unknowing to them) was instrumental in the development of Big Creek. It was inspiring to learn about their legacy and how it has continued to shape the community.

Handmade Shingles

Another unforgettable aspect of the tour was making a shingle by hand with Justin, the journeyman. Watching him work with such precision and skill, using only simple hand tools to shape the wood into a perfect natural shingle, was fascinating. As he worked, he shared his knowledge and techniques with us. Explaining each step of the process in detail and helping Cole, Troy, & Pa Pa make their own. Preserving traditional craftsmanship skills for future generations is of great value, and the demonstration exemplified this. At the close of the day, we gained a fresh understanding of the effort and commitment required to this craft. It left us with a sense of motivation to further our knowledge.

As a homeschool family, we were thrilled to have the opportunity to tour the Hanson House at Big Creek. It was an educational and inspiring experience that we will never forget. The historic home offers a glimpse into the past and provides a unique perspective on life in the 1880s. We were fascinated by the antique furniture, decor, and artifacts that filled every room of the house. We left the tour feeling grateful for the opportunity to have such a positive and enriching experience.

Hanson House at Big Creek

You can discover further details about this historic farmhouse on Door County Pulse and find the tour schedule at the Hanson House at Big Creek, Events Calendar. Check out all that Crossroads at Big Creek has to offer including Heritage Village. Read about the Honey Harvest at Crossroads.

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