History of Log Cabins

Countries were founded on early settlers, the hardworking, "sun up to sun down" people. The pioneer log cabin is the very epitome of this lifestyle. The log cabin, constructed by hand, requires skill and back-breaking labor.

The history of log cabins is not only an architectural building block, but attests to the character of pioneers. Surprisingly, this structure isn't as crude as pictures may depict. The log cabin is the original do-it-yourself project.

History

Researchers track the history of log cabins to northern Europe. The log cabin made its appearance in the United States in the 1600s when settlers from these originating countries immigrated to America. The Swedish are said to have constructed the first log cabins in Delaware. From there, the construction moved westward. By the late 1700s and early 1800s, the log cabin represented home on the prairie and in towns.

The Homestead Act of 1862 contributed to the spread of log cabins in the United States. This law offered 160 acres of land to settlers at a low cost to encourage development of westward lands.

Function

Why would settlers choose to build a home from logs? Native ancestors were content to live in caves, tepees and mud houses. Though primitive, early pioneers were civilized and desired a true home. With the major materials being trees and mud, log cabins offered quick shelter at little to no cost. With little income, early settlers were thrifty by necessity. If a family became fortunate enough to build a larger home, the log structure served as shelter for animals or was simply abandoned.

Features

Log cabins literally spring from the land using trees, stone and mud. Sometimes a stone foundation is laid prior to building. Trees are cut with an ax and logs hewn to size and shape. Notches of varying style are cut to fit the logs together at the corner. Natural materials such as twigs and mud are stuffed into gaps between logs in a process called daubing. Often a stone fireplace is built and windows and doors are cut. Some families even added board siding later as well as internal plaster. The result is a sturdy, thick structure.

Geography

Tracking the history of log cabins is like walking the paths of immigrating pioneers to young countries like America. Countries such as Sweden and Finland brought the skills and knowledge of log cabin building with them as they made the trek across the ocean. Once settled, log cabin communities quickly sprung from the land. In a path from east to west, the log cabin appeared across the country as the skills were handed from generation to generation.

Effects

Log cabins are a symbol of character. They've come to represent hard work and patriotism in America. Many well-known figures, either real or legendary, bring to mind the log cabin. Abraham Lincoln, raised in a log cabin, retains the respect of a nation. Architectural styles will continue to change but the fascination of the log cabin remains. Modern log cabins, though comfortable and built more for looks than function, are a testament to their lasting popularity.