Buel
House, according to local tradition, was a significant site
on the Cherokee Trail of Tears. The family of tanner Alexander
Buel (?-1894) was said to have fed pumpkin to hungry Cherokee
Indians being driven west by the federal government in 1838.
The story is probably not true, however, since records indicate
that the house was built in 1840. Still, it is a historically
significant structure, having been continuously occupied
by generations of one family for 146 years. There are indications
that over the years Cherokee stopped at Golconda to trade
while journeying to visit their former homes in Georgia.
The Buel House, along with much of Golconda, was listed
on the National Register of Historic Places
in 1976, as part of the Golconda Historic District.
Situated at the base of the Ohio River bluffs, the two-story
rectangular square-log structure has one-story additions
on the east and north sides of the original building. Also
on the site is a restored and furnished log cabin used for
interpretive programs by the Pope County Historical Society.
A paved lot provides parking facilities.
Support Group: The Pope County Historical
Society provides maintenance services for the site and volunteers
for guided tours.
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