The rear section of the hallway had been modified with a lower ceiling when it was enclosed around 1915; it was raised back to its original height in 2022.

When built, the center hallway had no doors, leaving it open to the elements. This style of construction was commonly found in simpler log cabins and was referred to as a "dogtrot," named for pets' fondness for the breezy area. (related story)

During pioneer times, newcomers would typically first construct a single-room log cabin to provide shelter from the weather, later adding more rooms as needed. The roof and floor extended between the two rooms, creating the open middle hallway.