Volunteers sought to restore one of oldest log structures in Madera county

Here’s a rare opportunity to become a part of history. All it takes is some elbow grease.

HistoriCorps and the Sierra National Forest are seeking volunteers of all skill levels to help rehabilitate the historic Jesse Ross Cabin, with four week-long volunteer opportunities running from June 21 to July 24.

HistoriCorps is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to engaging volunteer workforces to preserve historic places and provide free mentorship in the preservation trades.

The Jesse Ross Cabin lies adjacent to the North Fork River. Built in 1860 by Jesse Blakey Ross himself, the cabin is one of the oldest log structures located in Madera County.

Constructed using ponderosa pine, the cabin is a one-and-a-half story, single-pen, square-hewn log cabin that was built to be part of the larger homestead established by Ross.

The Jesse Ross Cabin was donated to the United States Forest Service in 1990 and moved from its original location to a new home across from the Clearwater Fire Station. Each part of the cabin was numbered, labeled and transported to the new site.

Volunteers originally worked with the Forest Service to dismantle and rebuild the fireplace as well as replace the structure’s deteriorated logs. Over the years many dedicated individuals have played a part in the preservation of this awe-inspiring cabin.

Volunteers are still needed to ensure the success of this project. Volunteers are encouraged to register now for a preservation experience that you won’t forget.

HistoriCorps welcomes but does not require any experience in the trades; mentorship and all necessary tools are provided. Volunteer sessions are scheduled Sunday evening through Friday morning and volunteers can expect all meals to be provided by expert field staff.

Tent camping and car camping can be accommodated at this site. Camping is located at a Forest Service compound residence cabin with access to the cabin.

Those interested in volunteering can visit www.historicorps.org to register for the project and learn more about other HistoriCorps volunteer opportunities.

Project details

The Jesse Ross Cabin is located about 42 miles southeast of Yosemite National Park.

The scope of work will address the following tasks: structural issues related to log movement and stabilize the building; restore windows and enhance their operation; prevent further deterioration by addressing rot and replacing log crowns where needed; replace the structure’s roof to enhance the building’s overhead security.

If time allows: complete other preservation tasks as determined with USFS staff.

Volunteer dates

• Session 1: Sunday, June 21 – Friday, June 26

• Session 2: Sunday, July 5 – Friday, July 10

• Session 3: Sunday, July 12 – Friday, July 17

• Session 4: Sunday, July 19 – Friday, July 24

For more information or to register for a volunteer session, visit www.historicorps.org or contact info@historicorps.org.