State Historical Society of Iowa

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Title:
  • Maxon Cabin Door
Description:
  • Door of the Maxon home, also known as John Brown's cabin, east of Springdale, Cedar County. Paneled, pegs not nails used to put together. Has lock, slide bolt, and two porcelain door handles. 30.25" x 80"
    American Civil War 1861-1865
    brought to Des Moines from the State Historical Society in Iowa City, May 22, 1979

    Two-panel door, green paint. Likely from the north entrance, or possibly an interior door. It is believed this door was salvaged from the William and Hannah Maxson (also spelled Maxon) home in Iowa Township, Cedar County (1860 Federal Population Census), east of the town of Springdale. The door was acquired by Cedar County resident Orlando. V. (O. V.) Edgerton. The home was often referred to as the "John Brown house." (Muscatine Journal, August 19, 1936) It is unknown when the door was salvaged.

    The Maxson home stood in a state of disrepair in 1934 and was reviewed as part of the Historic American Building Survey (HABS). The Library of Congress holds this collection and photographs of the Maxson House are held in the collection.

    The photographs from the HABS report indicate it is a door from the north or south side. The door seen in the photograph of the south elevation is a double panel door similar to this one but the hinge location would not match the handle or hinge placement on this door.

    On the east was a Greek Revival addition that had a single panel door. The east was a more formal entry with sidelights as part of the door. Based on the hinge and lock location it is likely the north door.

Accession Number:
  • 9232
Location:
  • Des Moines
Discipline:
  • Cultural History
Object Name(s):
  • Door,
Date(s):
  • 1859
Search Term(s):
Dimensions:
  • H 80.000 in x W 30.25 in
Associated Event:
  • Civil War
Permanent Record Link:
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State Historical Society of Iowa

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