At the Museum of Appalachia in Norris, Tennessee, visitors can view historic log houses and learn how this classic building style was actually constructed. Log houses, originally introduced by Scandinavian settlers were built throughout North America, wherever timber was in plentiful supply.
Swedish immigrants in the 1700's introduced this style, but it was immediately adapted by other settlers, especially on the forested frontier. It was popular wherever the supplies of hardwood were plentiful. Log houses remain very popular today, and range from simple rustic cabins to enormous mansions equipped with the most modern facilities.
HOW did they build log houses?
First, the settlers built a foundation, usually of stone, to keep the logs off the ground and prevent rot or termites. Then, they notched large, squared-off logs and fitted them together. Empty spaces were filled ("chinked") with little wedges of wood, and then coated with daub (plaster made of clay, straw, and soil) . The roof was made of wooden shingles.
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WHAT materials did they use?
Local stone for the foundation, hewn logs from the forests, daub made of clay, straw, and dirt found nearby, and smaller pieces of wood for shingles and chinking. All the materials could be found plentifully in the neighborhood for no cost.
WHY did settlers use the log house style?
Because the materials were free and close at hand, because no elaborate technology was needed to build the houses, and because they were well-adapted to the environment. A good ax was the most important piece of equipment. Like the other pioneer homes examined here, a log house took strength and skill, but it did not require advanced expertise.
Visit the Museum of Appalachia at Box 1189 Hwy. 61 Norris, TN 37828. For more information about the Museum contact them directly at 865-494-7680 or via email at musofapp@icx.net
