"The Cabin at Wildflower Woods" lies nestled on the shore of Sylvan Lake, near Rome City, Indiana. It is the former home of Gene Stratton-Porter, one of Indiana’s most widely read authors and one of the world’s first nature photographers

What is now the Gene Stratton-Porter State Historic Site was the Porter’s second home, built in 1914. The vast, undeveloped forest of this site provided a rich source of material for her nature studies, writings and photography. Porter developed the wildflower gardens using plants from all around the state. The gardens, arbor and many scenic paths are still intact. The site currently encompasses 125 acres of land, 20 of which were part of Porter’s original property.

"The Cabin at Wildflower Woods" designed by Porter, is a two-story cabin with exterior walls of Wisconsin cedar logs. Local wild cherry was used to panel the entrance hall and dining room. There are three extraordinary fireplaces on the first floor: one of polished English brick, one constructed of Native American artifacts and stones collected from other states and one of puddin’ stone.

Furnishings in the home are arranged and maintained to reflect—as authentically as possible—the Porter’s lifestyle. Much of the furniture and personal memorabilia, including Porter’s library, are preserved at the home.

In her lifetime, 1863-1924, Porter authored 12 novels, seven nature books, two books of poetry, children’s books and numerous magazine articles. With an estimated 50 million readers, her works have been translated into several foreign languages as well as Braille. Eight of her novels were produced as motion pictures.

The gravesites of Gene Stratton-Porter and her daughter Jeannette are located at this site.

Information from Indiana State Museum.