Martin's Old Off Grid Log Cabin #19 Putting a Rock Foundation Under the Old Cabin

After about 80 years the bottom logs on the cabin had rotted away and it was sinking so Martin jacks it up and puts small boulders under for a solid foundation. This also raised it eight inches.

[@howlandowlle7953]

I cannot tell you what vicarious satisfaction I enjoy from your videos, Martin. I am a recent widower living in a small, urban, third floor, Michigan apartment but with some distant memories of living in Montana. Your independence and self sufficiency taps into my own past and infuses my present with each installment. It feeds a needed sense of satisfaction in solitary life. As I see how you engage in your cabin life, I can see how better to frame and color in my own solo life albeit different in circumstance and setting. Good on you and thanks.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks for the note.

[@suesmith4325]

After I picked my jaw up off the floor I still couldn't close my mouth. And I am sure we didn't see 1/10 of the hard labor you went through. You are just amazing. I think you have blessed me with a renewed energy that I seem to have lost along the way. God bless you, sir! I love your videos and your stories.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thank you, there was a lot to that project and I left 10 pounds up there.

[@RiDankulous]

One man jacking up a whole cabin. That's something to behold!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Just for the record I raised one end at a time. It all went about as expected since you always expect the unexpected.

[@larryjacobs5713]

Sometimes when I don’t feel like getting out of my recliner, I think of you doing this project. All the effort of gathering the rocks by hand, jacking the cabin up, and building the foundation all with your own hands it encourages me to get out and do something! Thank you Martin for sharing your life and knowledge. May God bless you and keep you and may his light continuously shine upon your path.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thank you so much for that.

[@MrRonro66]

It was amazing to see what one determined man can accomplish in a week. Great job! You inspire us all.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

By the time all the things were back and sealed up it was 2 weeks with 10 pounds lost.

[@onemorchatykathy]

I sat here tonight in my little home in Oklahoma, and throughly enjoyed all of your videos. I love how you integrate the animals, plants, water sources, resting spot, old finds, your handy dandy cart, your love for the habitat, and especially your perseverance in moving those borders, and repairing your cabin! Thank you for sharing.

[@jshicke]

You are one hard working guy, sir. You are retired and you would still work me into the grave. Love the cabin.

[@paulmckenna9492]

A man from a different generation . Great rural handywork , and self reliance . Appreciation for your documentation . Cheers !

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks

[@yako0000]

That's a serious amount of hard work. That cabin will be on that foundation for 1000 years or more now.

[@bushcraftnorthof6012]

Nothing like a man finding satisfaction in his toil. Do I ever enjoy your channel! Thanks so much.

[@georgiaelevatorsandmore869]

Bushcraft North of 60 t

[@georgiaelevatorsandmore869]

Martin, I really enjoy your videos. They take me out of the rat race for a little while. Great job on the work on your cabin. Thank you, sir.

[@luckyvet]

The genius and lack of fuss that went into this vid almost frustrates me. He's one smart guy.

[@dwohio6398]

Remarkable one man job.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I was wondering when those jacks slipped during day two!!

[@brianspencer4220]

All the sweet equity you have put into maintaining the cabin. You sure have paid for the serenity. Thanks Btian 79

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Brian, you know what its like to sit back and enjoy once the job is done.

[@johnroos5807]

I'm seeing this on 27 March 2021, and I'm in awe!:) I don't think that the old owner thought to much about the cabin, but you've transformed it, and with the stone foundation, you've given the cabin a 'new lease on life'!:) Just don't let the beavers flood you out! Semper Fidelis

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

When the cabin was built it was probably a race before the snows came and never meant to be around that long, now it will be.

[@jc10907Sealy]

Every time I watch this I am amazed by your strength and sheer determination. I’m getting older and alone with a home and property in the suburbs that I wonder if I can continue to maintain, and when I watch you I get inspired to keep moving and keep advancing. Thank you!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Keep moving if you can, it makes a big difference. I always say if you have a hard task just think of it as a workout, more fun that a trip to the gym.

[@drjohnson98]

You'd mentioned raising the cabin in some more recent videos. I'd always assumed you'd had help. Stunning that you did the entire project on your own.

[@old-man173]

Great job keeping the old cabin in good shape

[@mrdfoutz]

Martin, you should write a biography to include details of your lifestyle over the years that resulted in how you became and maintained your strength and stamina! I certainly wish I would have been more like you. Glad you are getting to really enjoy your retirement years; seems like they might be some of the best times of your life!

[@billl605]

You do a wonderful work.

[@tomjeffersonwasright2288]

Your labor is far greater than watching TV of surfing the web, but you got results you will enjoy for a lifetime. The cabin looks a lot better too. On those old buildings, you can leave your level and plumb line in the tool box. Just stand back and make it pleasing to the eye, and you have a success.

[@kylestrauser5083]

I'm a minister in Indiana. I love the outdoors and I love your channel! I just watched part 19 for about the 3rd time! I need a place like that to get away and spend time with the Lord! I appreciate your worship music in other videos! Keep up the good work in showing us the importance of spending time in God's creation!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks for the comments, it is so important to worship the creator.

[@blutothebear]

I am just trying to imagine a millennium dealing with those challenges. The light bulb will still be in the Home depot bag. Living off grid in the woods of northern Maine, probably higher in latitude than your cabin, I can appreciate your hard work. Your foundation will endure decades of weather and still be around long after the SHTF. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!!!!!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I do enjoy it. Funny how you are down south from my latitude.

[@Naughtz]

You are a legend my friend! You don't see work ethic like that these days and it's a shame. I respect a man who can do his own repairs or atleast attempt with trial and error. You knocked this project out of the park. Love your videos they are so relaxing. Hope to see more fall and winter cabin living :)

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks Scott, I have some ideas forming in my head. One is noting items around the cabin and relating the story behind them. Hopefully with birds and animals roaming the background and smoke curling out of the chimney.

[@ricco8733]

This cabin has provided a lot of comfort and security and deserves a grateful steward. Nice work Martin.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks, hope many more can enjoy it for a long time.

[@JamesRobertSmith]

That amazes me that you did all of that alone!

[@smacky1966]

You sir, deserve the admiration and respect of every man who wishes to be a man.

[@mmanut]

Looking Fantastic! Looks like the roof is fairly new as well. Very comfortable. Just doesn't get any better than that. Have Fun! Vinny

[@stevearmstrong9071]

Great work Martin! You're such an inspiration. Can hardly wait to see what you tackle next.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

OK, the kitchen corner is next on the list. Been gathering the white metal off kitchen ranges to cover the wall area and brighten it up. A screened in gazebo??

[@retiredretired8496]

This rite here is "the American dream" to me .Thank you so much for taking your time to video this and share .Looks great sir .

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Happy to share such a dream come true.

[@larryjacobs5713]

Every time I get overwhelmed or discouraged I watch this video. No matter what I face it is a mole hill compared to this job. Still amazes me, that one man could do this but he is no ordinary man he is Super Martin!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks, when I watch that video I shudder a little in remembrance of what a task it turned into.

[@larryjacobs5713]

This is the most incredible project done by the most incredible guy that I have ever seen. Just amazing! I keep coming back to make sure Marty actually did it.

[@w.w.oklahoma6010]

Martin, God Bless Ya! You remind me of my Dad and his seven brothers. Hard workers and common sense sweating out of every pore of thier bodies. I've moved four 2 stories homes before, but a 80 year old fragile log cabin. Wow, that took some nerves of steel. Congrats Brother. Love the videos! "W.W."

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks, I used a lot of caution as I raised that cabin. A lot of pent up forces at play in that cabin.

[@dongray3258]

a true man's man..iron grit and a class act...good job sir.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks Don.

[@ClanGunnBushcraft]

The cabin looks awesome! There's not many real men like you left in this world! Great work brotha

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thank you, I love toiling around that cabin.

[@larryjacobs5713]

For me This is the greatest video I have ever seen on KZbin. It has everything courage, danger, intellectual challenge, the willingness to succeed, overcoming obstacles, proving that with age Martin just gets better and is a huge encouragement to the rest of us. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

[@treeclimbing7798]

Wow, what a great job ! Please show us all the little changes you had to make.

[@GrahamDixonUK]

You are an inspiration to me. I cannot be bothered to paint my walls at the moment but watching your video has shamed me into doing some long needed DIY. Thank you.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Glad I spurred you into getting started. Thanks for watching and the note.

[@franklyterrence4860]

Good job! It is nice to watch people just doing productive, fun, efficient work!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Happy to hear you enjoyed my toil, I did have fun too.

[@ruebenwilson6325]

Building it for the next owner. The next owners will love the hard work you've done. Good place to live out your last days. Wish life wasn't so short.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I take comfort knowing that the cabin will endure so much longer with the logs up off the ground.

[@kynaturalist]

That is an impressive accomplishment for an one-man operation, brother. Thank you for taking the time to film, edit, and upload this. I always enjoy your videos.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

thanks for appreciating it

[@russakawinderstempling505]

Determination to save something we love is an admirable trait------------hard work is the best payment, and the benefits are the best reward. My hat's off to you for your fortitude and perseverance in saving your little piece of Heaven!!! Love the videos---------Thank you!!!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thank you, cant' wait until I get back up there next month to enjoy the fruits of all that labor.

[@johnwinchell1029]

Wow! What a worker. An example of effort strategy at work.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I do love to work hard and then enjoy a well earned rest.

[@____________________________.x]

That bicycle trailer was ingenious, I've always thought that bigger wheels would make a trailer easier to roll, so it's nice to see someone implement the idea.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I have put a lot of miles on that trailer hauling gear around and it did not cost me a dime.

[@henrybrening]

Wow! Thats amazing. Thanks for sharing with us Martin! Great stuff!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Glad to see my toil is being enjoyed by so many.

[@daleramage7389]

What a great job looks terrific . Hard work always pays off for something we love. Always seems like having a cabin there is something to work on. Really enjoyed you video ,the rocks give your cabin a real rustic look as well as being functional

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

That project was a hard one but had paid off in so many ways.

[@oldbaldfatman2766]

Thanks for the video. Your set up reminds me of Uncle Ricard's & Aunt Lavon's place in northern Calif. back in the mid/late 60's. They had several gold claims that Uncle Richard worked on an he built a 25'x20' cabin for them to live in. Hillside was a good 15-30 degrees, so part of the porch area was on stilts, with everything cut/shaped from trees around them. Had a big hole on the back part of the porch as Aunt Lavon didn't want that tree cut down. Uncle Richard killed more than one rattler from under the porch and told us kids why we couldn't go under it. That tree become their (and our) shower. Uncle Richard ran a bunch of garden hoses that was inside a 50 gallon barrel that was under a small waterfall. For a shower head, used a regular, adjustable garden hose sprayer. The "fun" part was us kids trying to get a shower at the right time of day. Too early and water was ice cold....too late and it was scalding hot. Since this place was national forest, we had a lot of running around room, not that Uncle Richard or Aunt Lavon worried about us because we always went in a group and maybe only went a couple of miles to hit some creeks to catch trout by hand. As long as I knew them, Uncle Richard never worked a "real" job as defined by society. No 9 to 5 stuff for him. Work his claims, then during hunting season, as a guide. During one summer went with them when they went scavenging for metal thru the various forestry dept./small town dumps. He had a flat bed pickup to haul all our finds. The OLD Caddies had a good 100 pounds of copper wire, found about a dozen of the old BRASS, hand pump type fire extinguishers, etc. At the days end, find a creek/river for water and while I went fishing, Aunt Lavon would make supper. One thing about Uncle Richard, he could build/repair anything. They've been dead for about 30 years now, but I still remember them and very brief summers with them. That's why your video and you remind me of them. Thanks again.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks for that great recollection of some really good times.

[@gmchristie123]

It's amazing how one person can do such a large task with no modern equipment. Good job sir.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks Guy, where there is a will there is a way.

[@johnkrim8377]

The pyramids were built without modern equipment!

[@GILLEBRATH]

Where there's a will there's way ! Congratulations Martin, Looking great again.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Been planning this for a while and everything worked out.

[@denaredford6701]

This job was amazing , watching the cabin all lifted up and repaired . I know I have watched this video more then once .

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

It is one that will give me real satisfaction for years to come.

[@azbycxdwesmit3705]

when you take a break to take in the wildlife or surroundings it is so much more rewarding after a days busy time with must do projects such as yours.

[@debbiefromillinois532]

That's quite an accomplishment. Good job!!!

[@swanyut]

wow...that is impressive for a man your age to tackle that project all alone...well done Martin...even the videos of you fetching them rocks from far away is inspiring !!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I joke that back home I pay a health club good money to hurt like that. Thanks

[@roadpanzir]

Well done Martin, you chose the right path in life!

[@getredytagetredy]

You are an inspiration for all the people that want to be in your shoes...Keep gittin up Brother....

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks, it is nice having everyone along.

[@adelaidehulahoopers9286]

Love the way you move calmly..on knees, caring for your back and shoulders. I do the same. All the young lads would be in there, craning their backs and charging around...ruining themselves in the process. Slow and steady really does win the race.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks, yes I use caution and watch for situations that I will regret later.

[@offgridoldfart8110]

That was a LOT of work. Wrestling big rocks and logs,mixing mortar and jacking the building. Wow,you love that building. I pull my logs with a come along and cable during the winter(over frozen snow),peel in the spring,leave to dry and mill when needed. Life is good in the woods.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Yes it was. When you cut in winter how does the peeling go in the spring? Is it as easy as spring cut trees?

[@offgridoldfart8110]

@@TheNorthwoodsman1 ,once the log totally thaws the bark peels off in large sheets. Balsam fir. Gets slimy but that dries off eventually.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Nice to know I can still easily strip the bark if I get them down in the winter. The Tamarack were really slimy too but it would wash off with just water.

[@offgridinthepacificnorthwe3210]

Nice work. You saved the cabin! I restored a 100 year old dairy barn a few years back. I like to save the old buildings if I can. Some folks say "strike a match and start form scratch" Sometimes that is easier but so much history is lost that way. My house is about 100 feet from the original homestead house. All that is left of the old place is the walnut tree. It was like your cabin only built in 1850s. When we dug our pond we found the old can dump and a few artifacts. You are a very talented hard worker. Thanks for the video.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Like you I now know that this special place will be around for a long time for future generations to enjoy

[@offgridinthepacificnorthwe3210]

Amen brother. May the Lord bless you and yours in Jesus name.

[@danshields3654]

I give you a lot of credit being able to do what you did by yourself shows age is just a number. I know what you went through my Dad bought a place with a bad foundation so we had to raise the house take out the old block and form up and pour a new foundation we had a lot more help and modern jacking equipment than you and it still was a big job. So once again JOB WELL DONE.

[@ladeene06]

you sir, work as hard as my father! In the process of all the hard work we kids helped with we all grew up knowing that if you say "that's too hard, or I can't do that" you're just plumb lazy! I was the only girl and I was no exception! I'm 50 now and if I skip a chore I still fight the guilt of being lazy. But what a better world if everyone fought the lazies! Absolutely enjoyed these videos!! 💗💚💙💛💜

[@ratfink9205]

Damn! That old man strength rolling those boulders around. Great job.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Lost a few pounds on that project.

[@SaykhelRachmones-um1no]

My very favorite video at the old log cabin.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I remember that project well, so glad I got it finished.

[@goldrushpro]

The thing I love the most about you, is that you have nothing better to do. It is very inspirational! I hope to be in your situation soon...

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks Joel, like I said in the daily routine video, I went with nothing on my "to do" list and did not have it all done after three weeks.

[@gypsyhobo3016]

So cool you're finding all those treasures as you work, a little more pay for your efforts!

[@OffTheGridAdventures]

I love the pushbike carriage. It's nice to see you improvising with everything just like the old pioneers!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks!

[@AnnetteZang]

Fantastic job on jacking up the cabin and the repair work.....hard job!

[@antandshell]

Last of a kick ass generation. Big job for one man.

[@RAM-pb8re]

great job brother, the cabin looks amazing ! love your videos

[@jaredscabinlife2868]

Great work Martin! I put my cabin right on the ground with no foundation under it. After seeing this video I’m going to put a rock foundation down, I have an old rock wall close to the cabin site and I’m going to use those should be quite the project!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Have fun!

[@PeterNordBushcraft]

Great job fixing the cabin and making it level.

[@DiscoveryDiversTokyo]

Well done, sir!!! An inspiration...

[@martinbillingsley2591]

Great job looks amazing with all those rocks around the bottom thanks for sharing your videos with us

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

First plan was to bank dirt over the rocks but I could not cover them after I saw what they looked like.

[@yanknoz9710]

You certainly earned your dinner that week sir. Job well done. My compliments to you.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I must have missed a few dinners as I lost ten pounds during the trip. It happens paddling but never at the cabin.

[@postcardsfromheaven]

my friend i do not have tell you anything worth doing takes a lot on time and energy and most times lots of money ! good work ! so glad you are kind enough to share with us ! great job ! long live you and the cabin !

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thank you and I am so happy to share it like this.

[@darci12u]

Mr.Martin,you would be one to ride the river with,great job.

[@bobbyisno11]

Great job man, you're one strong old bugger.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Just one rock at a time and soon the job is done.

[@Todpevy]

martin , i realy know the passion you have , love being at my remote property. its real living.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

You can fully understand what goes on in such places then.

[@TheSab1972]

You are amazing! Thanks for sharing your hard work. Love your channel.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Oh, I just love life up there and enjoy sharing it.

[@hdspringer99]

Great work. Reminds me of the years I live in the UP. Thank you for sharing.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks, had a chance a few weeks ago to sit back and enjoy what was done.

[@sweetwilliam49]

You gave that old girl another 80 years, and a chance for someone to wonder who did this work

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

We keep journals of the cabin life so hopefully the future owners will know some of the latest history.

[@National757]

Pretty amazing work you are doing! Making me feel bad sitting here just watching!

[@donovanterblanche8311]

wow, you are incredibly hard working. a lot of young people could learn from you.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks, a lot of people just shake their heads and do not see the fun I have in it.

[@c.a.m.6276]

Martin, what a great work you have done. Your cabin is very nice. I wish I could help you out.

[@garygerow4822]

Awesome , thank you so much for sharing this .Inspiring !!! I love that you used a self made log hauler . I also love that you used what the earth gave you and made it work great and made it beautiful . Great job and again thank you for sharing it with us .

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks, getting by simply is a real joy to me. If I have a job to do I find myself looking around to see what is available to make the job easier.

[@TonchyShultz]

Very good job you've done masters...Good life and I wish you all the best ! Thx for sharing! :-)

[@cliffordwright1603]

Wow you did an amazing job. Looks great. I like the way you put those 2 bicycles to use. Very inventive

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks, I had the cart idea and one day just started building it. I did it at my home but did not have to make a single run to the hardware store.

[@gypsyhobo3016]

Good job! And it looks purdy too, lol. You remind me of me, doing everything by hand and engineering, so much more satisfying at the end of the day. Stay Free People!

[@lindashaw9034]

I really enjoyed watching what you did to solve the cabin settling problem. Thanks.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I get a twinge in my back when I think back on that project.

[@National757]

The cabin looks great!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks, now its time to clean up that north wall. The wood inside is sound so maybe just a half log inlaid after removing the soft wood on the outside.

[@brentcarrington2291]

I thought I was country but you Martin are the country! Great vids thanks! You remind of my Dads work ethic and reuse of handy items like the bicycle cart!!

[@motorcyclelad]

You just made my day Martin. I very much enjoy your cabin videos. I finally started work on a childhood dream of building a little cabin. As much out of free materials as possible and the rest recycled materials. It's not in an isolated woods far from anything, it's in a cow pasture in SW Iowa, but building it has been very enjoyable.

[@gorbaggoescamping1329]

You my good sir are... wait for it... LEGENDARY! I found your channel earlier today and started from your first video. I have enjoyed every minute thus far. Thank you for sharing with us all. I have subbed and look forward to more. Cheers, Gorbag

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks Gorbag, LEGENDARY? Not the first time I have been called that but just doing what I enjoy.

[@bigDH123]

What a beautiful cabin. Now it should last another 100 years.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I like the thought of that. So many rotted remains are scattered around the MN woods. They used tar paper roofs and they failed pretty fast. Someone put old metal on this cabin and saved it but eventually the rot was coming from the ground up.

[@gerardhiggins1]

I don't watch the videos in order, but another great trip. That's a lot of work for one man. What a beautiful job you've done on this project. I can't believe that you couldn't find help with that work considering the destination. Maybe you just like to work alone. In all my years in the woods I didn't like to be totally alone. If no human was with me, I always had to have my dog for company.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Glad you enjoyed it! I could have enlisted some help but felt I could take care of it by myself.

[@tinpandawg]

Martin is a rolling Stone , somewhere in northern Minnesota is a log cabin he calls home.....thanks for sharing your wonderful place...all your hard work really payed off turned out beautifully.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks

[@paullemmons1152]

Really great. You have motivated be to lift my old cabin. Look nice with that stone

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

You can do it!

[@johndeluca4116]

Wow! Simply wow! That was an amazing effort, true talent, and a wonderful outcome.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Just got back from the cabin and happy to report it came through the winter with no changes.

[@dBro4769]

Thank you for making these videos of your beautiful cabin. I really hope you continue to share with us.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

I will when ever I have footage of a posting. Thanks

[@richbayers6008]

Beautiful job on a hard project! We have had to do some things close to what you did on our 125 year cabin in Montana, but had to hire a local guy, luckily with much talent as you! An honor and a pleasure to watch what you are doing to keep the ol girl functional!

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

Thanks Rich, I think when they built these cabins the approaching winter and other work prevented thinking about 100 years down the road. The jays do not like vegetables either, feed them corn and get pecked on the hand too.

[@theoldwizard998]

The best thing is that you will never have to worry about the bottom logs rotting !

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

That's second best, if I had not done the work I could not have squeezed through the door in another year.

[@backpackinghikinguk1712]

Well after watching all your series and enjoying them all with envy I must confess this one on the cabin repair I found the most interesting, it is obviously a difficult job to jack a cabin up and put a new base in, well done and enjoyed it immensely. Manchester UK.

[@TheNorthwoodsman1]

There were a few issues but with a lot of thinking about "what if's" and being prepared for them the job got done safely. Thanks for the feed back. I am always interested in what viewers really enjoy watching and welcome any ideas for future videos.

[@larryshaver3568]

you did an excellent job, the cabin is so much safer too