Wood Cabins

Wood cabins are a popular part of history, and still exist to this day anywhere from the mountains to campsites and in between. First introduced in the 1700’s by Swedish settlers, wood cabins (also known as log cabins) usually contained only one room; were built without the use of nails; was incredibly small (usually no bigger than ten feet across) and typically included a loft area, used for sleeping.

Back then, wood cabins rarely had any windows, but if a window was created, pioneers would use animals’ skins or specially cut boards to cover them. Fireplaces were also a central part of the wood cabins, and would generally burn all day, keeping the family warm.

Flooring was pretty much non-existent, so most of the floors were just bare earth. If a family was lucky, logs were used to create the basis for a floor. Wood cabins were very rustic, and contained little or no “modern” amenities. They were sturdy and did provide a good and comfortable home during that period of history.

Nowadays, many wood cabins come equipped with everything from dishwashers to stoves to wireless internet capabilities. Of course, frontier men and women weren’t so lucky. They generally built their cabins from the ground up, and they were obviously not equipped with indoor plumbing or electricity.

The wood cabins stood to represent a time in history where life was filled with hardships and turmoil, and virtually symbolized pioneer life. It seemed that wood cabins would have died out all together had it not been for the Great Depression.

Decades ago, log cabins were built all over national parks and forests. Because of this, and because many people liked these simple houses, wood cabins are still popular today. Granted, most wood cabins now have more modern-day amenities, such as indoor plumbing and other conveniences. They do have many benefits, including solid protection from the elements and the idea of a simple life, where the individual or family depends solely on themselves to get by.

These days, you can find wood cabins to rent practically any campsite you go to. It lends a pioneer air to your adventure, and a sense of nostalgia for days gone by. While the early settlers created these cabins out of necessity, these days almost anyone can be found living or staying in one.

Kits are even available to build your own log cabin, if you so desired. Many home improvement stores offer the kits and also installation if so desired.

Whatever the reason, wood cabins are popular and are here to stay. They can make a comfortable, rustic home that will be used for generations to come.