New book on Steiner cabins donated to museum posted on 04/29/2023
Henry Steiner, an early settler in the area, constructed
more than 100 cabins and two churches on the Mountain over a span of 30 years.
These log cabins were not just simple structures but were
infused with artistry and craftsmanship; Steiner used unconventional logs,
including crooked ones, as well as handcrafted doors and doorknobs made from
small trees, giving each cabin a unique charm.
The significance of these log cabins was brought to the
forefront by Julie Steiner, granddaughter of Henry Steiner, and her husband,
Skeet Arasmith, who took up the task of documenting the locations and status of
Steiner cabins and published a book, titled “Steiner’s Log Cabins,” on the
Steiner cabin story.
Arasmith, a geologist, meticulously researched the history
of the cabins, collecting photographs and documentation from the Mt. Hood
Cultural Center and Museum and other sources to create a comprehensive account
of these unique structures and then donated the book to the museum.
“We're really glad Skeet did it because people wanted to
write a book, but we didn't want people to profit from the museum's research,”
said Lloyd Musser, the museum’s volunteer curator.
The release of the book has been warmly received by the
local community, with the book flying off the shelves on the first day of its
release.
It has become a treasure trove of mountain history,
providing insights into the legacy of these iconic log cabins and the
craftsmanship that went into their construction.
Despite being initially inexpensive when sold, these log
cabins stood the test of time. Many other log cabins from that era have rotted
away or collapsed, but the Steiner cabins, with their durable construction and
careful craftsmanship, have endured for more than 85 years.
In addition to the book release, Musser also shared that the
annual Steiner cabin tour will be held on Saturday, Aug. 12, allowing visitors
to experience firsthand the charm and history of these unique log cabins.
Further information about the tour can be found on the
museum's website starting from July 1.
Copies of Arasmith’s book can be purchased for $30 at the
museum's gift shop, located at 88900
Government Camp Loop in Government Camp, or on the museum’s website, https://mthoodmuseum.org/.
By Ty Tilden/MT
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