What you may not notice at first glance is the history of the region flowing through every inch of these structures. You see, Jay McEntire is not only a farmer and a preservationist, he’s also a firefighter of sorts. “Whenever someone tells me about an old barn or farm building that’s about to be set afire I can’t stand it,” says McEntire of his knack for stepping in, salvaging the wood and rescuing it from its fiery fate. If you think his efforts are heroic, know that the story doesn’t end there. McEntire not only rescues the wood, he gives it new life by using it to build and repair structures on his property, thus giving it a collected, historical presence. It doesn’t stop with barn wood either. The walls of the main house and guest retreat are dotted with captivating Native American artifacts including pottery, art and a large collection of arrowheads—many of which were found at the farm. Along the walls of the open, airy breezeway, situated in between the boot room and
the camp’s kitchen, you’ll find a lifetime’s worth of vintage curiosities, everything from a tambourine to an iron pot used to make black powder during the Civil War—all displayed in a eclectic, yet museumworthy gallery wall designed by McEntire himself. As for the guests? There’s certainly no shortage of people who gather to hunt, share stories and even play music at the spacious getaway, which can sleep 24 comfortably. From the first fall chill until the last day of duck season, you’ll find McEntire hosting a gathering of friends, family, acquaintances and people who were downright lucky enough to get a casual invite from someone headed to this private family retreat. “We’ve had everyone we know out here from investment bankers to farm boys and even friends of ours from China,” laughs McEntire. “People love the freedom,” adds his wife Margaret, “they get tired of being cooped up and can’t wait to get out here.”
Design Resources Accessories Cynthia East Fabrics, Little Rock, (501) 663-0460, cynthiaeastfabrics.com; Haus Werk, Little Rock, (501) 663-5251, shophauswerk.com November 2013 | athomearkansas.com 47