How to Build a Log Cabin Home From the 1800s

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Log cabin homes were first introduced to the New World by Swedish settlers in the early 1700’s. They used no nails and usually the log cabin had only one room. Log cabins were usually 10 feet wide and 12 to 20 feet long. They usually had at least one window. Here is how to build an 1800's-style log cabin.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Masking tape
Small sticks and wood chips
Measuring tape
Pencil and paper
Rake
1 hammer
1 jigsaw or ax
10 sacks clay or mud
Rocks, enough to cover the cabin's total floor area
Logs
Construction gloves and protective eye gear

Step1

Determine the space of land where you are going to build the log cabin. An elevated dry area would be preferable to an area that gets flooded. Measure and draw the desired floor plan using a pencil and paper. In the 1800’s, a four-corner rectangular floor plan was most common.

Step2

Lay a rock or stone foundation to keep the logs above the damp soil. Water will dampen your logs which will cause them to rot and deteriorate. It is important to remember that moisture needs to be avoided at all times in making a log cabin. Using your jigsaw or axe, square off the ends of each log. Cut notches on the top and bottom of each end in order for the logs to fit together without the use of nails.

Step3

Determine the height you want your cabin to be. Starting with one wall at a time, Stack the logs and fit the notched ends together at the corners. "Chick" (or stuff) sticks and wood chips in the gaps between the logs. Fill the remaining spaces with mud or clay. Let it dry.

Step4

Using your jigsaw or your ax, cut open a door and at least one window. Make sure you cut the window at a comfortable height which lets you see outdoors without needing to bend or to tiptoe. Determine the size of the door you want before cutting. Use masking tape to mark the cutouts.

Step5

To form the roof, lay logs horizontally evenly on top of your cabin just like the way you created the walls. Make sure you fill in between the logs with sticks and wood chips before applying mud for insulation.

Step6

Rake the dirt and gravel floor smooth. Make sure the floor is even with no portion too high or too low. Smooth out any elevations and make sure that no water seeps in when it rains. Throw out any rocks that may be too sharp.

Tips & Warnings

Wear construction gloves and eye protective gear to avoid flying splinters. Wood glue may be used instead of clay/mud, although to be true to the 1800’s, mud is preferable.
Build your log cabin during summer months. Cold damp weather will increase the project's difficulty.