[2][3] In mid-1964 the home was almost destroyed as a fire hazard as it had fallen into disrepair and transients were living in it.

Prior to that Kluge had apparently done significant work on the original cabin's first floor, which has hewn squared logs.

Kluge and his family came to America from Germany in 1871, first settling in Detroit, Michigan for two years, and then Helena, Montana, arriving on May 3, 1873.

[2] At that time, the family moved into this house, which was an abandoned miner's cabin.

[4][5] Kluge worked mostly as a contractor, but also as a gold prospector, constable, and Justice of the Peace.