Hikers in their Habitats
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In 1874 John Ferguson was deeded a tract of 447 acres, part of which had been owned by his father, Willian. The exact date of the cabin is unknown, but it's likely to have been built shortly after 1874. He married in 1880 and they raised three children, of whom two sons lived to 99 years of age. The Ferguson cabis in the highest elevation cabin within the Smokies, near the summit of 5,086 Purchase Knob. It was unusual for farmers to live at this elevation but the Fergusons were the exception. A nearby spring furnished an ample supply of water and a variety of apple trees on the property provided the family with fruit. Corn was grown as a staple crop and cattle grazed on the grassy areas. One of 4 historic log cabins being restored through the Park.
