The History of The Dan Lawson Cabin in Cades Cove

The Dan Lawson log cabin was constructed in 1856. Several additions to the home were later added on and the entire structure was covered in siding.

Dan Lawson was a postmaster of the Cove for over 25 years. For many years the post office of Cades Cove was ran inside of the center room of the Lawson cabin.

The small room on the front porch with an interior window is thought to have been where the Cades Cove residents came to pick up their mail.

Others wonder if the room was indeed an office for Dan Lawson because he was also the Justice of the Peace during this period.

What is known about the room is before either event occurred, the room was used as a “stranger’s room” for people passing by to be able to stay inside of the cove and his home.

Dan Lawson operated a store and owned one of the largest tracks inside of Cades Cove during this period of time.

In the 1890’s, Dan along with a few other residents constructed a telephone line into Cades Cove. This allowed many homes inside of the cove to have a telephone and for those who could not, the Lawson store had one on standby for anyone to use.