RESTORATION OF THE LOG CABIN: 2004 - 2012

When we moved to the property 25 years ago, the original 1790 barn was in great need of attention due to a leaking roof and deteriorating sills. That restoration project fueled an already strong interest in the historical structures in the area, so much so that when we discovered in 2004 that a very old (c.1766) log cabin, sited a couple of miles away, was available for purchase, we didn’t hesitate –even when the owner sold it to us on the proviso that we must remove the whole structure in a weekend!

Called “The Fort” according to local oral history, it was said that the log building had been a small French fort from the French and Indian War and that the log house and an attached post-and-beam building had been moved to their location at the end of Meeting House Road ‘a long time ago’. There was also a tradition that “The Fort” had been converted to a wind-powered gristmill during the Civil War.

The original structure, a traditional log cabin construction measuring 22’ square, was in very bad shape. The stone sill was long gone, exposing the 8” square hewn timbers of white pine, oak and hemlock to decades of moisture. Over half the timbers were rotted beyond repair, and the floor, most of the windows, hearth and chimney had been removed. Thankfully components of the upper floor, accessed via a ladder, were largely intact, with the 200 year-old paneling, floor, and cross beams fully salvageable.

Under the guidance of local mastercraftsman and restoration specialist Thom Litwin, we removed the structure, labeling each piece and documenting their exact dimensions and position to ensure accurate reconstruction. Determining the date of the original construction would be nearly impossible without performing dendrochronological (or tree-ring analysis) tests on the logs. However certain objects found at the site suggest a mid-1700s birth: a single piece of window muntin found in the rubble under the remains of the flooring on the ground level, and several pieces from a clay pipe stem found in the encasing of a first-floor joist.

Somehow we managed to meet the seller’s timeframe, transferring every piece of wood - from rotted and sound timbers and the white pine paneling from the second floor to that window muntin segment - to our property. Then we drew up a detailed blueprint of the structure, documenting the measurements of each timber to be replaced.

Over the next four years, we prepared the site for the log cabin on South Dominion’s property while awaiting the completion of the replacement timbers. Finally, during the summer of 2008, we were ready to begin the process of reconstruction. As the original builder, William Cooper Sr., did 250 years prior, we put our sons to work to help clear the land and raise the timbers - albeit with far greater speed and ease! Even so, it would take another four years to reach completion and another four years after that to fully furnish.

Today we encourage tasting room customers to explore the lovingly restored log cabin, just a short walk from the winery, enjoy a picnic on the lawn, or stay for a weekend. Sited near the vineyard in a lovely setting on the edge of the woods overlooking the surrounding countryside, it offers guests a peaceful getaway evoking a simpler time.

The full bathroom on the main floor is equipped with a walk-in shower, sink and medicine cabinet, and shelving for towels and other amenities. The kitchen, also on the main floor, is equipped with a full range/oven, counter height refrigerator, farmhouse sink, coffee maker, and a complete set of utensils and kitchenware, providing everything one might need for an overnight or weekend visit.

After enjoying a meal at the dining table with seating for six, settle into a comfortable upholstered chair with a glass of wine, read a book or play a game as a crackling fire completes the atmosphere of rustic authenticity.

Four beds upstairs – two full size and two twins – are perfect for a family of 4-6. A futon and additional bedding is available for 1-2 more guests who don’t mind sleeping on the floor. Cable TV, WiFi, books, and games are provided for our guests entertainment and connectivity requirements.

Today, the cabin and its surrounding vineyard are the backdrop for some of our most memorable guest experiences. Whether you're looking to slow down for a night, toast something special, or find a quiet corner of the Hudson Valley with a glass of wine and a view — we have a way to make that happen. Learn about Cabin Stay Experience and make a plan to visit us.