Save This Old c.1912 Fixer Upper Dog Trot House For Sale on 20 Acres in Alabama $120K

If interested in a property, please contact the realtor whose link is provided in the post below, or contact an agent of your own choosing. Independent verification of details and status is recommended.

1811 County Road 7 Rd, Marion, AL 36756    $120,000

• Contact Realtor: Bucky Henson – Gulf States Investment Propert
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The dog trot house is a unique architectural style that originated in the southeastern United States during the 19th century. It is also known as a “dog run,” “possum trot,” or “dog-trot” house. The dog trot house is characterized by its specific layout, which consists of two separate cabins or pens connected by a covered breezeway or open-air corridor in the center.

History

The history of the dog trot house can be traced back to the early settlement of the American South, particularly in regions with hot and humid climates. The design of the house was developed to address the challenges of the environment and provide a comfortable living space for the residents.

The name “dog trot” comes from the idea that the open-air corridor in the middle of the house allowed dogs and other animals to freely move through the structure, providing them with shelter while still allowing them to roam. Additionally, the open breezeway facilitated air circulation, helping to cool the interior during hot summers.

The dog trot house typically featured two main cabins, each with its own entrance. These cabins were usually one or two rooms deep and were placed parallel to each other. The breezeway, also referred to as the “dog trot,” spanned the gap between the cabins. It was often left open to the elements, although some variations had a roof or screens to provide protection from rain or insects.

The layout of the dog trot house was designed to take advantage of natural ventilation. By having two separate cabins, cross-ventilation was achieved as breezes flowed through the open central corridor. This allowed for effective cooling and provided relief from the heat and humidity.

The cabins of the dog trot house were typically constructed with simple materials such as logs, timber frames, or vertical board-and-batten siding. The roofs were commonly gabled or shed style, covered with materials like shingles or metal. The breezeway was usually left uncovered or enclosed with lightweight screens or shutters that could be adjusted depending on weather conditions.

The interior of the dog trot house was divided into functional areas. One cabin was commonly used as a living space, including a kitchen and sitting area, while the other served as bedrooms. This separation helped to maintain privacy and reduce heat transfer from cooking activities.

Today

Over time, as building techniques and preferences changed, the dog trot house gradually fell out of favor. However, it still holds cultural significance and is considered an important part of architectural heritage, particularly in the southern regions of the United States.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the dog trot house as a sustainable and energy-efficient design. Modern adaptations of the style incorporate updated materials and construction techniques while preserving the essential features that make it a unique architectural form.