Augustus M. Crouch journeyed from Georgia to Washington, Arkansas, around 1840. A veteran of the Mexican War, he transitioned from soldier to his trade as a watchmaker, a profession he pursued for decades.

By 1850, Crouch, then 28 years old, was already established as a watchmaker. He married Sophia E. Holt in 1850 and soon acquired property that included a sawmill and gristmill. He built his own home in 1857.

Beyond his trade, Crouch was a beloved community member, renowned for his watchmaking skills, musical talent (described as having a "love of music" and being an "expert piccolo player"), and his role in the local brass band. Augustus and Sophia raised a family, including children Elizabeth, William, Nellie, and Augustus Jr.

While his later years were challenging, including financial struggles, Augustus M. Crouch left his mark on Washington, Arkansas, before his passing in 1896.

Today, his home serves as a foundational structure within Washington, preserved by Historic Washington State Park. Within the home, tourists are guided through rooms that detail the process of building a home, from the joining of beams and methods of lighting to techniques for producing faux finishes. The tour also features examples of period window glass, locks, shutters, shingles, and other hardware used in 19th-century homes. Additionally, the home features other historical treasures. Tour the park today and get the inside scoop on building a 19th-century home. Enjoy the experience of learning about and seeing the craftsmanship of the past.