THE CABIN

The Arkansas River was one of many rivers which influenced a route of travel for wandering Indian tribes and early pioneers. Located on its north bank just 1000 feet from the Pikes Peak branch of the Santa Fe Trail was this cabin. It was one of several way stations and was owned and operated by Burrel Smith. Made of cottonwood logs, hewn at the river's edge, the cabin was a five room structure. There were three rooms in the front and two rooms in the back, the roof was sod, and the floor was wide unplaned boards.

There were several bunk houses for travelers who stopped to refresh themselves, and outbuildings for the horses. A grove of trees gave shade and protection.

Of Historical Interest: Travelers heading to the gold fields or to Denver with a stop over at the way station included such well known figures as:

In 1884, Burrel Smith sold the cabin and land to John Steuben Moore. Today the cabin can be seen at the Museum in Las Animas, Colorado. Return to Front Page 1