William Hoelscher Farmstead, Smokehouse, 08529 State Route 219, New Knoxville

Source document Quoted word for word from HABS OHIO,6-NEWKX,1D-. Not written, edited or summarised by this site.

The smokehouse is a good example of traditional log construction typical of the Midwest region and contributes to the character of the farmstead continuously owned and occupied by the Hoelscher family for over a century, from its original construction until Description: The smokehouse is located on the north side of the house and faces south. A small gabled-roofed log structure measuring 12 feet wide by 20. feet long, the smokehouse sits on a brick foundation and is covered on the exterior with weathered vertical board siding and shingle roofing. There are two doorways--one in the south wall and the other on the east--and one small grated vent opening each on the west and east walls. The building is in fair condition.

History: According to county tax records, Henry Hoelscher built this structure circa The front of the structure was used as a milkhouse, while the rear was used as a smokehouse. The building has been continuously owned by the Hoelscher family until when it was acquired through eminent domain by Auglaize County. The smokehouse and the remainder of the farmstead are required to be removed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) because they obstruct the approach to the nearby Neil Armstrong Airport. In accordance with a Memorandum of Agreement dated December 27, and signed by the FAA, the Ohio State Historic Preservation Officer and the Commissioners of Auglaize County, the house and farm buildings are being recorded and offered for sale for relocation prior to demolition.