Volunteers re-roof Vinther-Nelson Cabin

June 20, 2017

Volunteers and employees from the Idaho Panhandle National Forests replaced the cedar shake roof on the Vinther-Nelson Cabin earlier this month. The Vinther-Nelson Cabin, located on 8 Mile Island on Priest Lake, is part of the Priest Lake Ranger District. It was built in 1897, and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982. The Priest Lake Ranger District fire and recreation crews transported the building materials on the Forest Service barge, and assisted in the demolition of the old roof. The Forest Service boat operators transported people, supplies and trash safely to and from 8 Mile Island. While that may sound fun and easy, they encountered two storms, mechanical issues, and water obstacles, which included retrieving a canoe and stairs from the water! The timber crew demonstrated their proficiency laying shakes, while the Northern Region’s Preservation Team provided technical knowledge, instruction, and direction. Other volunteers included Forest Service employees from across the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, retired Forest Service employees, and Vinther-Nelson family members. The Vinther-Nelson family occupies a portion of the cabin and operates a museum out of the other side under a special use permit through the Forest Service. The museum is open to the public during the summer, Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.