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New book on Steiner cabins donated to museum
April 29, 2023
By Ty Tilden/MT
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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/.
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