John Kauffman swam ashore here after the vessel on which he was traveling broke up on shoals off Presque Isle and sank in a fierce storm. The homestead is unusual in that the logs were "squared up" in order to give a closer fit and provide additional insulation during the winter months.

He built his homestead and began a business of providing timber and firewood for passing schooners and steamers. Some of the Kauffman decendants still are residents of Presque Isle and are a vital part of the local community, having donated the cabin and land for the Heritage Park. The homestead has a gift shop with souvenirs and crafts, open in the summer months, and is maintained by the Grand Lake Association.