Johnny Sack's Cabin - Big Springs - Island Park, Idaho
by Susan Rissi Tregoning
Title
Johnny Sack's Cabin - Big Springs - Island Park, Idaho
Artist
Susan Rissi Tregoning
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
Autumn at the historic Johnny Sack’s Cabin and Waterwheel on Big Springs in Island Park, Idaho.
In 1929, Johnny Sack, a German immigrant carpenter standing just four feet eleven inches tall, rented a small piece of land from the United States Forest Service and started constructing his log cabin at Big Springs. Thanks to its distinct location and scenic beauty, Johnny's cabin and the adjacent waterwheel have become one of the most photographed spots in Island Park. Thousands of visitors are drawn to the cabin each summer to admire its log and stone architecture and learn about its vibrant creator. The cabin's construction took about three years as Johnny primarily used hand tools such as saws, draw knives, scrapers, and planers. He also built a small structure with a waterwheel at the edge of the springs to generate electricity. In 1979, the cabin was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Big Springs, a Natural National Landmark, ranks among the 40 largest natural springs in the world and produces over 120 million gallons of water daily. These springs form the headwaters of Henrys Fork of the Snake River, which flows through Fremont County and creates stunning vistas at Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. With a steady temperature of 52 degrees Fahrenheit, Big Springs is a habitat for rainbow trout, muskrats, ducks, moose, and other wildlife. It's common to see ospreys and eagles diving into the springs for fresh fish meals.
Copyright 2024 Susan Rissi Tregoning
Uploaded
September 25th, 2024
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