There’s something special about the old cabins hidden throughout the Sierra Nevada.
The hand-hewn logs. The stories buried in the walls. The reminder that generations before us survived in places many of us now only visit for adventure.
This summer, volunteers have a chance to help preserve one of the Sierra’s oldest surviving log structures.
HistoriCorps and the Sierra National Forest are seeking volunteers to help restore the historic Jesse Ross Cabin near Shaver Lake and the North Fork region of the Southern Sierra.
Built in 1860 by Jesse Blakey Ross during the Gold Rush era, the Jesse Ross Cabin is considered one of the oldest log structures in Madera County. Originally constructed from ponderosa pine along the North Fork River, the cabin later became part of a larger Sierra homestead tied to ranching, farming, and early settlement life in the mountains.
Today, volunteers will help continue preserving this remarkable piece of Sierra history through week-long preservation projects running from late June through July.
Project work will include:
• Stabilizing the historic log structure
• Restoring original windows
• Addressing rot and replacing deteriorated log sections
• Replacing the cabin roof
• Additional preservation work alongside Forest Service staff if time allows ()
No prior construction or preservation experience is required. HistoriCorps provides mentorship, tools, training, meals, and camping accommodations for volunteers. Tent camping and car camping are both available at the Forest Service compound site. ()
Volunteer Sessions:
• June 21–26
• July 5–10
• July 12–17
• July 19–24
The cabin sits roughly 42 miles southeast of Yosemite National Park in the Sierra National Forest.
For outdoor lovers, history buffs, preservation enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a deeper connection to the Sierra Nevada, this is one of those rare opportunities to physically help protect a piece of California mountain history.
Learn more or register to volunteer through HistoriCorps . MAP to Jess Ross Cabin
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