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Parman built their present home from poplar logs salvaged from a barn built near Bardstown, Ky., in 1781. The structure was documented as the oldest barn in Nelson County and one of the oldest in the state. With the help of his sons, Andrew and Kevin, and Steve and Michael Morgan from Morgan Lumber in Gatesville, the old 30-by-36 barn was dismantled in two days.

Back home in Brown County, the logs formed the main living area of the Parman home. A massive stone fireplace was built from stones from an 1870 log cabin in Gatesville that burned. Wide pine plank floors were installed with screws that look like pegs.

New construction, using old logs from other structures, added a master bedroom, laundry and half-bath. A lower level was also added for an entertainment area and additional bedrooms, to bring the total square footage to 3,300.

In the Parman cabin, the weathered logs serve as the interior finish, eliminating the need for drywall, paint or wallpaper. Poplar joists from the old hayloft serve as ceiling beams in the basement, where a walk-in colonial fireplace was built with recycled bricks from an old fire station.

The federal-style décor begins with hues of barn red, federal blue and brown that set off the furniture and accessories the couple has collected for several years. Dennis has developed an eye for primitive and colonial pieces that work well in log cabins. The settee - a long bench with a high back and wrap-style - was traditionally placed in front of the fireplace to capture warmth, he said. Other interesting pieces are a sugar chest, tavern table, Queen Anne chairs, wooden bowls and redware.

Betsy believes the simplicity of the home and its furnishings offer a sense of tranquilty to the family and to guests.

"If we've accomplished that, we've done well," she said

 

Voris Nancy. "Modern Pioneers." South Date:Fall 2008 Pgs. 58-59.