The Baxter County Historical and Genealogical Society is inviting the community to support the restoration of the historic Casey House by sponsoring white oak porch planks for $150 each. The fundraiser, part of the society's 'All A-Board' campaign, aims to fund the porch as one of three exterior restoration efforts.
In addition to plank sponsorships, the nonprofit is accepting smaller donations and gifts to help complete different phases of the project. Along with the porch, the plan also includes constructing a historically accurate roof and a new foundation, with roofing work being handled by Born to Roof.
The restoration of the 1858 two-room dog-trot cabin began last year and has already progressed inside the structure. Crews have installed new floors and applied period-appropriate wallpaper.
The project is receiving financial support from both public and private sources. Baxter County allocated $100,000 toward the restoration in its 2025 budget. Additionally, a state grant of $68,000 was awarded to the society after it requested $142,000 to fund the first phase of the work.
Built in 1858 by Col. Randolph D. Casey, the Casey House is the oldest standing structure in Mountain Home. It remains on its original site at East Wade and Arena streets, adjacent to the Baxter County Fairgrounds. The cabin has notable historical significance, having served as the county’s first courthouse and Mountain Home’s inaugural post office. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in December 1975.
Donations to the Baxter County Historical and Genealogical Society are tax-deductible, as allowed by law. Contributions and plank sponsorships can be coordinated by phone at 870-425-2551, via email at baxtermuseum1873@gmail.com, or by mailing P.O. Box 2125, Mountain Home, AR 72654.