Log Cabin Day

Log Cabin, Old World WI. 7/4/2015 dwm photo

Log cabins have been around a very long time, dating back to Medieval times in Europe (476 - 1450) where tall, straight trees grew.

They are solid but can be moved by taking it apart then re-assemble when you get to your new home.

Cabins became a political symbol in the 19th century, representing a humble background and regular people.  While seven presidents trace their beginnings to log cabins, one is most closely identified with them, the rail-splitter, President Abraham Lincoln.

Log cabins are still under construction today.  Some point back to simple beginnings as a small shelter to get people out from the weather but leaves plush and luxurious style at home.  Some home are built with logs but as the home's footprint grows the less it resembles a cabin.

For settlers and pioneers carving a life out of the wilderness, cabins tell their stories with each tree; the hand tools creating a tight fit between logs; their little homes on the land became the foundation those pioneer families needed to survive and nurture the next generation.

These were 'tiny houses' before that became a cultural phenomenon where people ditch excess stuff by simplifying life in a small, simple, minimalist home.  In the 21st century log cabins are a romantic notion but we probably wouldn't choose them over where we currently life and leave our wi-fi, electricity, and other creature comforts behind.  A good use of this annual day might be by adopting a log cabin lifestyle for a day or weekend to appreciate what it developed and gratitude you don't have to live like this unless you choose it.