Doolen

Built around 1860, the Doolen Cabin was home to Benjamin and Laura Ann Doolen and their family. The cabin’s history is closely connected to local family life, Civil War service, and the Doolen Cemetery.

Quick Facts

Approximate construction: Around 1860
Original owners: Benjamin and Laura Ann Jones Doolen
Marriage: September 30, 1860
Civil War service: Benjamin served in Company D of the 111th Illinois Infantry
Years of service: 1862–1865
Military campaign: Served with General William T. Sherman during the March to the Sea
Children: Harriett Llewellyn, Sherman, Icy Dora, and Charles Isham
Burial: Benjamin Doolen is buried in Doolen Cemetery with both of his wives

History of the Doolen Cabin

The Doolen Cabin was built around 1860 and was home to Benjamin and Laura Ann Jones Doolen. Benjamin was born in Foster Township on February 23, 1843. Laura was born on January 16, 1843. They married on September 30, 1860, when both were seventeen years old.

Their first child, Harriett Llewellyn, was born when they were eighteen. Benjamin and Laura later had three more children. Sherman was born in April 1866 and died thirteen days later. Icy Dora was born in March 1867, and Charles Isham was born in August 1869.

At age nineteen, Benjamin enlisted in the Union Army. He served in Company D of the 111th Illinois Infantry from 1862 through 1865. His company served with General William T. Sherman during the campaign remembered as the March to the Sea.

Following Laura’s death, Benjamin married Mrs. Inis Tate on September 26, 1896. Benjamin died on March 1, 1926, and is buried in Doolen Cemetery with both of his wives.

The cabin is preserved at Kinmundy Log Cabin Village as a reminder of the Doolen family’s life and Benjamin’s service during the Civil War.

Historic Photographs

Preservation and Maintenance

Preservation and maintenance updates will be added as work is completed on the cabin. This section will document repairs, restoration projects, and the ongoing care needed to protect the structure for future generations.

Recent Updates

New photographs and updates will be added here as displays are changed, improvements are completed, or new information about the cabin becomes available.