Daniel F. Akin House

The Daniel F. Akin House is a two-story stone building with a hipped roof and a small cupola rising from its peak. Constructed from limestone quarried in the area, it displays architectural details typical of residential design from the 1850s.

The owner built this house starting in 1856 after relocating from Virginia to Minnesota, establishing himself as a farmer in the region. The construction spanned several years and reflects the development of agricultural settlements during this period.

The house shows design choices that reflected the aspirations of farmers who wanted to display their success and status through their homes. The architectural details reveal how residents of the era valued craftsmanship and thoughtful building.

The property sits on rural land accessed from Akin Road in the farming area. Visitors should plan for country driving conditions and be prepared for varying weather, as this is an open agricultural setting.

Members of the family conducted weather observations from this location starting in 1885, providing long-term records that helped scientists track climate patterns in the region. The site became important for documenting severe storms, including a major winter event that struck in 1940.