
Log cabins reached their peak of complexity and elaboration in the Adirondack style cabins of the mid 18th century.
In the past log cabins were never intended as permanent dwellings and as time passed they were often converted into out buildings for coops, animal shelter or other utilitarian uses.
Log cabins can be diverse in their design, quality of build and workmanship. When you build your own log cabin, make sure you satisfy yourself that it is going to be suitable for your needs.
William Henry Harrison made use of log cabins, along with the "Whigs" to show to the Americans that he was a people's man.
There are parts of Europe that use log cabins as summerhouses or as an extra room in a garden.
In timber-rich regions of the world log cabins are popular dwelling places and are a common sight, particularly in the northern hemisphere.
Before you take the plunge into buying a plot of land to build your own log cabin, do some research into your costs, so you know exactly what you can or cannot afford.
Among log houses already built, only 10% are those built with individually handcrafted logs with the use of handheld tools.
Interestingly, there is now a toy available in the market, called Lincoln Logs, which is fast becoming a favorite among the young. It is obviously named after Abraham Lincoln, who must be the most famous figurehead associated with log cabins.
Today's log cabins are generally more energy efficient that concrete or brick buildings from 50 years ago.