Almost three years of work, and countless hours of labor, are near an end as the “new, old” Cabin in South Park nears its first open house.
On Monday morning, concrete was delivered for the base of the porch floors and posts. Open porches on the west and east sides of the structure are currently under construction, each to feature eight foot ceilings.
The cabin itself is a reconstructed 1808 log structure from Mifflin, likely originally an inn or store because of its large size. Where needed, additional wood has been added, obtained either from other Mansfield properties or from trees which have naturally fallen in local parks, particularly Middle Park.
A large fireplace on the north side has already been used several times. The chimney features an “Ohio stone,” one with the outline of the state and with the location of Mansfield demarcated by a marble.
The result is a building which looks back to the past while also celebrating the community in which it is found.
The next construction on the property will be a blacksmith shop, the third of five planned and permitted buildings. Blacksmith equipment has already been donated. The new shop, to be located a bit east of the Blockhouse and south of the Cabin, will also house a cooper and candle/soap making.
Richland Early American Center for History (REACH) will be hosting a gathering at the Blockhouse and Cabin on October 5 and 6. The event will feature the sights and smells of the past, as well as opportunities to visit these unique pieces of local history.
1812Blockhouse will have more on the October event as it nears.
