Hester-Lenz House, Historic log house in Benton, Arkansas.
The Hester-Lenz House is a two-story residence with a central breezeway connecting two log structures. The building combines early American log construction with German-language architectural additions made over time.
The house was built in 1836 by James Hester using virgin timber and locally made red clay bricks. It stands as the oldest occupied residence in Saline County at its original site.
The Lenz family, who took over the property in 1891, blended local building traditions with elements from their Swiss-German background. You can see in the modifications and additions how different cultures came together and influenced each other within the structure.
The house sits along AR 5 North in Benton and remains in private ownership under the care of the Lenz family. Visiting is possible, but it is worth checking ahead to confirm when visits are welcome.
Records suggest the house served as an important meeting spot for discussions about Arkansas statehood in its early years. This role in the state's founding process often goes unnoticed today.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
