Traditional Log Cabin Building Methods
There
is something special about a log cabin built by hand from natural
materials. Equally special is the man or woman who undertakes such a
challenge.
The logs, with their axe cuts and notches, take you
back to a time long past when each builder’s skill showed throughout
his dwelling.
John Oliver Cabin, Cades Cove
Tennessee
What
character you will find in the distinct lines of the chinking between
the logs, in the hand peeled porch railings, in hand made
hinges
and hardware. In an age of pre-made building materials where everything
is perfectly square and symmetrical, a rustic hand built cabin shines
like a light on a hill.
Building
your own log cabin will test you as a person both physically
and mentally. You will find you have skills you didn’t even know
existed.
Notching a Log
On this website, you can learn about all the phases of cabin
construction including various wood types, notching styles,
foundations, tools, roofing options and much more.
Before I
built my cabin, I was looking for people who have experience and
information. I found very few live ones and only a few books. Most
books were outdated. I was after details more than fuzzy black and
white photos. You can find those details here!
Log cabins to visit and explore are all around. You just have to know
where to look. Some are preserved historical landmarks that you can
tour inside and out, learning about the extraordinary pioneers who
often built alone and with no electricity or power tools.
Other
cabins are private residences. These you may have to admire from a
distance - though it’s amazing what a knock on the door and some
friendly compliments will do. When I am fortunate enough to meet an
owner/builder, I often ask for advice about some small aspect of
building and regularly get invited in for a tour…and an education!
Take a look around this site and feel free to ask questions or send
your comments and stories. Thanks for visiting!
"Banjoe" Farkas
My Own Cabin in Bellevue,
Michigan