Inside an 1868 Log Home with a Metal Roof, Updated Windows, and Modern Touches

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Mathew Abraham, editor of Century Homes America, brings his passion for architectural history to explore the stories behind America’s most iconic homes.

1868 Log Cabin Retreat in Nashville, Indiana
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

This authentic 1868 log cabin, reassembled in 1946, sits on 8.4 wooded acres in scenic Brown County, Indiana. Priced at $485,073, the 1,872-square-foot home features two bedrooms, two baths, and two fireplaces. A red Amish-installed metal roof crowns the structure, which boasts modern upgrades like new vinyl windows and a screened-in patio. Originally part of the Strahl Lake Settlement, it offers rustic charm with the comforts of a peaceful, wooded retreat.

Side Exterior View

Side Exterior View
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

This angled exterior view highlights the home’s hand-built stone chimney and classic log construction. The vivid red metal roof, installed by Amish craftsmen, adds a bold contrast to the weathered wood and forested surroundings. A paved path curves gently along the structure, inviting strolls through the peaceful yard. Large windows bring natural light inside, while the home’s rustic exterior blends beautifully with the mature trees and serene, wooded landscape that surround it.

Where is Nashville?

Where is Nashville?
Bing Maps

Nashville, Indiana, lies in the southern part of the state, nestled in Brown County’s forested hills. It’s about an hour south of Indianapolis and near Brown County State Park, Indiana’s largest. Known for its vibrant arts scene and pioneer history, the town is a popular destination for nature lovers and artists. Visitors enjoy hiking, local artisan shops, and live music, all wrapped in the small-town charm that defines this cultural haven.

Historic Signpost

Historic Signpost
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

A charming wooden signpost topped with a bell stands near the entrance, marking distances to various destinations. It adds a playful, personal touch to the cabin’s history-rich setting. The deep red paint complements the roof and log walls, blending old-world craftsmanship with a whimsical character. Each directional arrow tells a story, connecting past journeys to the present moment and providing visitors with a sense of place, adventure, and connection to the wider world.

Living Room

Living Room
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

The living room features a stunning floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace with a thick timber mantel, evoking timeless cabin warmth. Exposed log walls and glowing hardwood floors create a cozy, rustic feel. A white vaulted ceiling with recessed lights brightens the space, while large windows offer tranquil wooded views. The room is comfortably furnished with leather seating, a patterned rug, and handcrafted accents, making it the ideal gathering place for relaxation and quiet, fireside evenings.

Warm Gathering Space

Warm Gathering Space
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

This inviting lounge area showcases a relaxed yet refined style, mixing natural textures and thoughtful decor. The room’s centerpiece is a cozy seating arrangement flanked by recliners and a plush loveseat adorned with a vibrant throw. The white ceiling and wide windows create an airy, light-filled atmosphere. Mounted antlers and rustic art nod to the home’s woodland setting, while the hardwood floors and warm tones make this space perfect for unwinding in comfort.

Stone Fireplace Detail

Stone Fireplace Detail
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

A closer look at the main living room fireplace reveals the craftsmanship behind its stacked stonework and rugged timber mantel. Decorative touches like carved wood sculptures, Native American figurines, and a mounted antler plaque lend character and charm. Flanked by dark-stained log walls and glowing hardwood floors, the fireplace anchors the room in rustic tradition, while the electric insert adds warmth and ease, perfect for cozy evenings surrounded by vintage textures and woodland views.

Country Kitchen

Country Kitchen
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

The kitchen and dining space offer rustic charm with modern convenience. Wide-plank hardwood floors pair beautifully with knotty wood cabinetry and a matching hutch, while large picture windows invite natural light and green views. A wrought-iron chandelier adds an old-world farmhouse feel above the round wood table. The space also doubles as a laundry area, cleverly tucked beside the dining nook, creating a multifunctional layout without compromising the room’s sunny, homey atmosphere.

Sunlit Garden Nook

Sunlit Garden Nook
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

This bright corner of the kitchen blends indoor warmth with outdoor serenity. A wall of windows and a sliding glass door lead to the deck, letting in abundant daylight. A collection of healthy houseplants thrives on a built-in bench, adding life and color to the space. A stained glass window hangs in the center, casting soft patterns across the room. Warm wood cabinetry frames the space, enhancing the home’s rustic yet welcoming charm.

Primary Bedroom

Primary Bedroom
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

The spacious primary bedroom is a cozy retreat rich with rustic elegance. Exposed log walls and massive ceiling beams frame the room, while warm-toned hardwood floors stretch underfoot. A large stone fireplace anchors the space, offering warmth and ambiance. The custom wood bed, topped with a quilted blanket, evokes pioneer craftsmanship. Light filters softly through windows on both sides, illuminating the textures and creating a serene atmosphere perfect for restful nights.

Rustic Bathroom

Rustic Bathroom
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

This bathroom features a blend of rustic and updated elements. A walk-in tiled shower with earthy tones pairs well with the log walls and wood-trimmed window, which looks out onto a grassy yard. A red vanity with a polished wood countertop adds a pop of color, while details like a copper vessel sink and wooden shelving bring character. Natural light streams in, enhancing the cozy, cabin-like atmosphere of this thoughtfully designed space.

Upper Loft

Upper Loft
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

Tucked beneath a sloped wooden ceiling, the upper loft provides a cozy, private hideaway with classic cabin charm. Wood-planked walls, pine cabinetry, and warm hardwood floors make the space feel snug and inviting. A ceiling fan offers comfort, while soft lighting and a southwestern-style rug add texture and warmth. Ideal as a reading nook, office, or guest space, this loft balances rustic beauty with quiet versatility—just right for peaceful mornings or quiet reflection.

Spacious Back Deck

Spacious Back Deck
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

The back deck offers a generous space for outdoor living, framed by forest views and bordered by a classic wood railing. The warm, honey-toned planks glow in the sunlight, creating a perfect setting for grilling, lounging, or entertaining. A covered grill and nearby screened-in porch make it functional year-round. Surrounded by tall trees and peaceful silence, this elevated deck invites long afternoons soaking in nature’s beauty right at your doorstep.

Cabin Side Walkway

Cabin Side Walkway
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

A gravel path winds gently along the side of the cabin, leading past the historic log walls with their rich patina and red-trimmed windows. The stone foundation and exposed piping reveal the structure’s rustic construction, while modern upgrades blend in subtly. This area is functional yet charming, ideal for accessing outdoor utilities or simply enjoying a quiet stroll along the wooded edge of the property. Nature and craftsmanship coexist in perfect harmony here.

Rustic Workshop

Rustic Workshop
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

This detached workshop blends seamlessly into the landscape with its rough-hewn siding, stone foundation, and red metal roof echoing the main home. Inside and out, the space is built for hands-on creativity or practical storage. Hanging tools and vintage touches decorate the exterior wall, adding character and charm. A wide gravel entry and simple picket gate welcome you to this purposeful retreat—ideal for woodworking, gardening, or simply enjoying a quiet project space.

Utility Room

Utility Room
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

This bright and tidy utility space doubles as a home gym and organized storage area. Clean white walls and ceilings reflect the natural light from a wide window, while sturdy built-in shelving keeps bins, seasonal items, and office supplies in order. A desk setup adds function for hobbies or light work, and exercise equipment makes wellness convenient. Efficient and versatile, this bonus room supports both relaxation and productivity—all in one well-kept corner.

Fire Pit Area

Fire Pit Area
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

The outdoor fire pit area is a cozy, social space surrounded by towering trees and rustic charm. A circle of Adirondack chairs and wooden benches invites gatherings under the stars while scattered planters and garden tools hint at seasonal life and color. Just steps from the cabin and workshop, this area is perfect for roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, or enjoying crisp evenings in nature. It’s a warm, welcoming extension of the cabin lifestyle.

Gravel Drive 

Gravel Drive 
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

This wide gravel drive leads directly to the front of the historic log cabin, offering a clear view of its two-section structure and bold red rooflines. The stacked logs and stone chimney exude rustic character, while carefully maintained windows and landscaping keep it inviting. Firewood is neatly stacked nearby, ready for cozy nights. Framed by bare winter trees, the home stands proudly—both a preserved piece of history and a quiet escape in the woods.

Aerial View 

Aerial View 
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

This stunning aerial perspective reveals the full expanse of the 8.4-acre wooded estate, outlined clearly to showcase the home’s private footprint. Tucked deep within mature trees, the red-roofed cabin stands at the center, offering complete seclusion while still being minutes from town. The dense forest provides natural privacy and year-round beauty, making this property ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape surrounded by nature and the timeless charm of log cabin living.

Path to Workshop

Path to Workshop
Phillip Shively @ Carpenter Hills O’Brown

A gentle stone path winds from the cabin toward the detached workshop, bordered by hand-stacked stone walls and a lush green lawn. Mature trees offer shade and privacy, while the red-roofed structure blends seamlessly with the natural landscape. The combination of rustic textures—log siding, stone, and timber—creates a harmonious connection between home and land. This tranquil walkway sets the tone for daily routines or strolls across your very own wooded retreat.

Listing Agent: Carpenter Hills O’Brown via Zillow

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