Homestead in Sunlight Basin
A Little History Is Sill Standingby Dan Hartman
Sept. 22, 2012
In 1915, when Hebrew Ward arrived in Sunlight Basin, he must have thought “what a beautiful place to live!” The only problem, you can’t survive on the scenery alone. After building a strong cabin of logs covered with sod., he and his wife settled in with other homesteaders to start a new life. They brought in cattle and chickens, planted crops and gardens. Times were extremely hard. Most, including The Wards, were always close to starving.Things must have gotten better by the 40’s because the cabin was added on to. It even held the areas post office for a time.
When Larry Luckinbills’ dad bought the land and buildings in 1952, Hebrew was gone, but his wife still lived in the cabin. During the sale, Larry who was seven, folks would leave him with Mrs. Ward when they went to town. Larry admitted to me he wasn’t sure if he was more scared of the old house or the old woman!
Larrys dad paid Mrs. Ward well for her homestead (about $13.000). At the time other homesteads were being sold for around $1500.
Years passed. In The 70’s Larry bought out his parents. The cabin was never lived in after Mrs. Ward left in 1952. Old Magazines and household furnishings lay where they were abandoned sixty years ago.
For more than twenty years I’ve driven passed the old homestead wandering about it’s back story. I even noticed when part of the roof caved in last year. It was a lucky break the day I ran into Larry and his wife as they emerged from their drive way. He readily gave me permission to examine the old buildings as well as grant me an interview about the places history. Thanks to them for saving this piece of the past.
If there are any modern day homesteaders out there, Larry informed me he has inexpensive land for sale. It’s a beautiful location!
If interested call : 1-307-899-3176 or email: Skytrucks@q.com
Photos
Homestead
Sod Roof
Living Room?
Have A Seat
Garage
Barn
Windows For Light
Kelly Standing Beside The Cabin Door