The Cypress Log Cabin in the Century of Progress National Register District in Beverly Shores is now available for visitors to rent.
The building has a fascinating history.
Originally built for the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, the home wasn’t expected to last as long as it has. It was intended to be a temporary exhibit.
In 1935, the home was transported to Beverly Shores, along with other Century of Progress homes, to promote the new development.
After serving as a private home for decades, it has been restored through a partnership between Indiana Landmarks, the National Park Service and private groups. IN the Dunes, a subsidiary of Michigan City’s NWI Development Group, is handling leasing arrangements.
“We are excited to make the Cypress Log Cabin more available to the public,” Indiana Dunes National Park Superintendent Jason Taylor said in a release. “Our partnership with Indiana Landmarks and their relationship with NWI Development Group provides a unique option to continue restoring and maintaining an exceptional cultural resource in the park, while enhancing visitor opportunity and experience.”
“We are honored to have the opportunity to care for such a historic landmark,” Erin Harrell, executive general manager of IN the Dunes, also said in the release. “By offering the Cypress Log Cabin as a short-term rental, we will be able to provide guests with a unique and unforgettable experience while also ensuring its long-term preservation.”
The cabin, on Lake Front Drive, overlooks Lake Michigan. Visitors have a short walk across the road to access the beach.
Even as the Cypress Log Cabin opens for short-term rentals, the National Park Service and Indiana Landmarks are working to shore up the exterior of the House of Tomorrow, the last of the Century of Progress homes to be renovated.
The House of Tomorrow was innovative for its time as one of the first examples of passive solar heating for a home. It also featured an airplane hangar that doubles as a garage as well as an automatic dishwasher.
The iconic pink Florida Tropical House and others from the Century of Progress are under long-term leases that require the tenant to restore and maintain the homes at their own cost and to National Park Service specifications. The Cypress Log Cabin is the first to be used for short-term rentals.
Doug Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
