The Smoky Mountains were once a bustling community with lots of homesteads, and Cades Cove is home to the largest number of intact cabins built by the area’s European settlers. Thanks to the preservation efforts of the National Park Service, visitors can explore these historic structures today. Ready to learn about some Cades Cove history? Here are some unique facts about the Carter Shields Cabin:
1. The cabin wasn’t built by Carter Shields.
When was the cabin built?
The Carter Shields Cabin was not built by its namesake like many of the other structures in Cades Cove and the national park. Rather, it was constructed by another settler named Will Sparks around 1880. It is a one-bedroom cabin with a loft, fireplace, and porch. It may surprise you to discover that the framework is held together by notched corners rather than nails! The property also had a barn, chicken coop, and cellar, which no longer stand today. Visitors can still imagine what it was like to live off the land as they explore the property.
2. Shields, a Civil War veteran, bought the property in 1910.
Who was Carter Shields?
George Washington “Carter” Shields purchased the property in 1910. He was a Union Army veteran who was wounded in the Battle of Shiloh. This Civil War battle took place in April 1862. Like so many other people in Cades Cove, Shields made his living as a farmer. Carter grew crops to feed his family while also selling them for income. Farmers sold their produce to general store owners. They would also use it to barter for services, such as education for children.
3. It’s one of the most photographed places in the national park.
How can I see the Carter Shields cabin today?
The Carter Shields Cabin is the last stop on the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop. There is a pull-off with limited parking. Take a short footpath to reach the clearing where the cabin is. The area is one of the most photographed places in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can take pictures on the porch or in the open forest behind the cabin. The beauty of this area changes with the seasons. A rainbow of wildflowers covers the ground in the spring while vibrant colored leaves adorn the trees in early fall. There is also a small stream that is the most stunning after a heavy rain. Just be mindful of potential muddy spots!
The entrance to the Carter Shields Cabin has no door, so you can explore the inside while you’re there. Bring a flashlight to get the best look at everything, as there is limited light. Use caution when looking around, as some of the material is old. Follow the Leave No Trace guidelines and do your best to leave the area as you found it. We want all visitors to enjoy the rich history.
More Historical Structures in Cades Cove
We hope you enjoy seeing the Carter Shields Cabin on your next visit to Cades Cove. If you want to know more about historical structures in the area, read up on the John Oliver Cabin!
