Trapper's Line Cabin

Trapper's Line Cabin. A Safe Haven on the Trail. , Winter trapping was a considerable part of the Athabascans' subsistence lifestyle. Most trapping was done in the winter because that is when the animals had the warmest, thickest fur. The winter coats of so many different animals helped the Athabascans survive Alaska's harsh winters. This meant the trappers had to set and maintain their trap lines in the worst of winter conditions., In order to safely extend their trap lines as far as possible, trappers would build simple shelters known as line cabins about a day's journey from one another along their winter trapping routes, which could take up to a week to cover. Although not nearly as intricately constructed as the log cabins found in villages, these shelters still provided adequate protection from the harsh elements., Made from small, usually unpeeled logs, these line cabins were a bare-bones, basic shelter. Line cabins were built small on purpose so they would be easy to heat. There was rarely a floor, just spruce boughs or saw dust, and the cabins typically contained little more than a bed cushioned by caribou hide and a small stove. As they were only used for the occasional overnight stay, the cabins were primarily intended to be a place to warm up, dry out, and sleep. Trappers often brought a dog or two inside with them for extra heat retention., While trappers built line cabins for their own use, anyone in need of shelter was welcome to use them. It was customary to replace any supplies used, and to chop additional firewood for the next traveler., [Photo caption reads] "Clarence Brundidge"