Andreas and Magdalena Burgener Farm

102 West 100 North

Viewed from 100 West, this historic home, constructed in 1880, is a remarkably well-preserved example of a one-and-a-half-story hall-parlor frame house. It features an original rear ell and subtle Greek Revival architectural elements, including pedimented returns on the gable ends, a raked cornice, and pedimented window heads. A shed-roof front dormer was added in the late 1880s or early 1890s, and the striking red tile roof was installed in 1948.

What truly sets this property apart is the rare preservation of all its original outbuildings, reflecting its legacy as a working farmstead. These include a two-story structure built in 1875 (initially used as living quarters and later as a granary), a smokehouse also dating to 1875, a barn from 1885, a chicken coop from 1920, and an outhouse of undetermined age. Together, these elements make the site a rare and valuable example of a complete historic farmstead, earning it a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

The story of the property begins with Andreas Burgener, his wife Magdalena, their two young children, and Andreas’s father Jacob, who immigrated to Midway from Switzerland in 1874. Andreas constructed the original two-story building the following year on the western edge of the property. While raising their growing family, three more children were born in the temporary quarters—Andreas built the stone wall that still stands in front of the house.

A man of many talents, Andreas was musically gifted and helped establish a brass band in Midway. He also served as a member of the town council.