Edith L. Moore log cabin to be restored

Edith L. Moore log cabin

The Edith L. Moore log cabin landmark in Houston will undergo restoration before the holidays.

The restoration project will cost more than $200,000 and was made possible by Terry Hershey and many other donors, including the Brown Foundation Inc. and The Wortham Foundation Inc. Hershey provided a final donation to complete the funding as a gift in honor of her late husband Jake.

The Edith L. Moore cabin is the only remaining log home in Houston to stand where it was originally built and was recorded as a Texas historic landmark in 1996 by the Texas Historical Commission. Edith L. Moore and her husband Jesse hand-built the cabin in 1932 on the west bank of Rummel Creek.

"In a time when our lives have become so busy and hectic, this cabin and surrounding woods provide an incredible sanctuary not just for birds, but also for people," said Jessica Jubin, development director, in the press release. "Edith was a woman ahead of her time, and thanks to her and a generous community including Terry Hershey and many others, this place will continue to thrive and be protected for future generations to enjoy."

The cabin currently hosts bird and nature programs, day camps and after school education programs for students and families. Guided night tours called Owl Prowls are open to the public, as well as a winter Birding Class hosted by Glenn Olsen and photography opportunities through the Houston Area Nature Photography Association.

"We have so many incredible people to be thankful for this season," said Martha Wright, president of the docent guild, in the press release. "This cabin stands the test of time. It has made it through floods and hurricanes since 1932, and as long as we are here to help it, it will continue to stand for the community's benefit, just as Edith had wished it."

The completion of the restoration is expected to take place Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013. A festival event will be hosted to celebrate the rescuing of the landmark and the community is invited to attend.

For more information about the cabin and other programs happening around the sanctuary, visit www.houstonaudubon.org.