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Sam Penrod ReportingPart of the early history of Utah County, that could have been destroyed, now has a new home. Preservationists in American Fork have moved two log cabins that had been tagged for demolition to make way for new development.
The two cabins, built by the early settlers of American Fork, were moved to a city park this week. It wasn't an easy job, but as we found out about the cabin's histories, the effort will pay off for the future.
Some of American Fork's earliest history took a ride down a busy street on Wednesday, en route to its a new home. A pioneer era cabin, from the 1860's will now go on display at American Fork's Robinson Park, and moving such an artifact requires delicate effort.
Robert Wells, Contractor: "They were in pretty poor condition, that's why you see all the two by fours and reinforcement around the edges and inside, so they will stay together for the move."
The cabin has special meaning for Robert Hall. It was built in 1867 by his great grandfather, Alexander Adamson.
Robert Hall, American Fork Resident: "The corners on this are very rare, they are dovetailed, they are not only locked one way, but two or three different ways. He really had to know what he was doing. He did it all with an axe. He went up American Fork Canyon and retrieved the logs."
Another cabin from the same time period was moved yesterday, though less is known about its history. City leaders say both cabins will keep the early history of the community alive.
Juel Belmont, American Fork Historic Preservation Commission: "There aren't too many 1860's cabins left around, and we feel like this is the fabric of the town and our history, and very important to save these."
Robert Hall says he would feel the same, even if the cabin wasn't part of his family's history.
Robert Hall, American Fork Resident: "I think it is important to all of us. Some people aren't interested in keeping anything, they'd rather bulldoze it over and build new, but some of us like to preserve our heritage."
American Fork's preservation committee is now hoping for more donations to help the cabins to be improved so people will be able to see what life was like in the 1860's.
To get involved in the restoration of the cabins, please contact Robert Hall at 801-756-4697
