Description of Historic Place

Anahareo’s Cabin is located on a hillside above Grey Owl’s Cabin and overlooking Ajawaan Lake in Prince Albert National Park. The simple, rustic cabin has a gable roof and is constructed of horizontal logs. The designation is confined to the footprint of the building.

Heritage Value

Anahareo’s Cabin is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental values.

Historical Value:
Anaharoe’s Cabin is one of the best examples of a building associated with Anahareo, who was the second wife of the naturalist Archibald Belaney, more commonly known as ‘Grey Owl’. Grey Owl achieved international fame through his wildlife films, writings and lecture tours. The designation of this upper cabin, in memory of Grey Owl’s wife, recognizes widespread public fascination with the personal life of Grey Owl.

Architectural Value:
Anahareo’s Cabin is an example of rustic construction in the log cabin tradition. Though it was extensively reconstructed in 1979, the simple form, materials and detailing reflect the original cabin in its economy of design and rustic aesthetics. The use of natural textures and finishes and local materials result in a building that suits its wilderness setting. The building exhibits good craftsmanship and materials.

Environmental Value:
Anahareo’s Cabin maintains an unchanged relationship to its site, is compatible with the undeveloped, natural character of its lakeside setting and is a familiar attraction for park visitors.

Sources:
Edward Mills, Buildings, Prince Albert National Park Volume 2, Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office Report 85-063.

Anahareo’s Cabin, Ajawaan Lake, Prince Albert National Park, Saskatchewan, Heritage Character Statement 85-063.

Character-Defining Elements

The character-defining elements of Anahareo’s Cabin should be respected, for example:

Its good quality craftsmanship and natural materials, for example:

-Its horizontal log construction and shingled roof.
-The use of local native materials, natural in colour and rough in texture.
-The placement of the wood windows and the wood panel door.

The manner in which Anaharoe’s Cabin maintains an unchanged relationship to its site, is compatible with the present rustic character of its natural park setting, and is a familiar building in the park, as evidenced by:

-The cabin’s ongoing relationship to the forest in which it is situated.
-The simple form, natural materials and textures of the cabin that are compatible with its natural surroundings.
-Its association with Grey Owl and with aspects of his personal and professional life that make it an attraction known to visitors and townspeople.