Van Cabin (47-124): Cultural Landscapes Inventory, Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

Regions 3, 4, & 5 Park Cultural Landscapes Program

Inventory Unit Description: The Van cabin site is located on a small bluff in a quiet bend along the Wisconsin side of the river in the lower portion of the Saint Croix River National Scenic Riverway. The site includes a main cabin, a former ice house now used as a storage shed, a horse shed now used for storage of equipment, a well house, and a privy. The landscape characteristics consist of circulation patterns, ornamental and natural plantings, small scale features, and views. An archeological survey in the area of the cabin did not reveal any evidence that pre-dated the cabin. It is speculated that, due to the site's close proximity to the river, evidence would be lost in any kind of flood event. The property continues to be occupied by the Van family under a special use permit. The National Park Service acquired the property in 1980. Mr. Theodore Van began his lease on the property in 1934. Shortly thereafter, he contracted with a local farmer living downstream to have the rounded log addition added to the original structure. A neighbor from St. Paul used rocks from the river to build the fireplace. The exact date of construction of the cabin is difficult to discern, and the current structure is the result of several changes which took place over time. This approach to the structure as a fluid design is typical to seasonal properties of the region that were often altered to accommodate changing needs in summer recreation. In 1941, the original cabin structure was removed and the main body of the house was built. In the early 1950s, an old squared log structure was dismantled and moved to the site for use in constructing the front addition and the well house. The cabin's rustic design complements its position in the landscape. The Van property landscape is typical of many seasonal residences associated with historic recreation and tourism along the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway. The cabin, outbuildings, and landscape demonstrate a moderate to high degree of integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association.

Van Cabin (47-124): Cultural Landscapes Inventory, Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

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