Lon Chaney Cabin
| Lon Chaney Cabin | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Elevation | 9,200 ft (2,800 m)[1] |
| Named for | Lon Chaney |
| Year(s) built | 1929-1930 |
| Cost | $12,000 (equivalent to $219,744 in 2024) |
| Owner | United States Forest Service |
| Technical details | |
| Material | Granite and lodgepole pine |
| Floor area | 1,288 sq ft (119.7 m2)[2] |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect(s) | Paul R. Williams |
The Lon Chaney Cabin is a historic building in Inyo County, California. Constructed in 1930 as a retreat for the early 20th-century actor Lon Chaney by Paul R. Williams, it was used as a retreat by Chaney. As of 2024, the rustic-style cabin is closed to the public and is currently being used as a ranger station. It is in Cienega Mirth near the Big Pine Creek, known for its trout.[a]
History
[edit]The cabin was built from 1929 to 1930, costing $12,000 (equivalent to $219,744 in 2024). It was designed by Paul R. Williams, who had designed other buildings for celebrities such as Frank Sinatra. It was the only alpine structure he ever worked on.[1][2]
Chaney rarely used the cabin, as he died of lung cancer in 1930. It was sold in 1932 and 1955. In 1964, the Wilderness Act was passed, slating the cabin for destruction until it was realized that the dynamite that was to be used to destroy the building would also damage the surrounding forest.[1][2]
Features
[edit]The building is made from granite and lodgepole pine. It is rectangular and has a gable roof and 2 ft (0.61 m) thick rock walls. It has a tongue and groove floor with a rock fireplace. Light was provided by a hanging kerosene lamp.[1][2]
No money is provided to maintain the cabin's interior, but volunteer groups routinely maintain the exterior.[1][2]