Around 1820, Peter and Barbara Rugh moved to Pleasant Township from Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. Peter and Barbara had 3 children: Elizabeth, John, and Christian. Christian Rugh married Eleanor Spohn on June 11, 1835. In 1838, Christian inherited the family farm when his father passed away. At some point, Christian had this impressive house built on the property. Christian Rugh fought in the Civil War from 1861-1866. He was in his 50's when he went off to battle. Christian and Eleanor had numerous children. Their son, Thomas B. Rugh, was a member of the 17th Regiment of the Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was killed at Somerset, Kentucky on January 8, 1862, at only 19 years of age. Their other son, William H. Rugh, inherited the property after Christian passed away on August 18, 1873. The Rugh Family were successful farmers.

"Followed Jesus as his truest guide, lived Christian as a Christian died"

In 1919, the property was sold to Henry and Martha Hartman. When Henry passed away in 1930, Lu Lu (Hartman) Mast acquired it. Apparently, after his death the house was never occupied again.

Personally, I believe the brick building near the house was a mill. A waterwheel is clearly visible on the side. I believe the wet land next to it was a mill pond. The stream that flows through the property runs close to this building.

The Rugh Family never kept slaves in that building. The Rugh Family fought for the Union.