Poplar Heights Farm is pleased to announce the acquisition of the historic Atkeson Cabin

It's just 17 feet square, made of old logs with a curling split shingle roof. Heat and cooking come from a stone fireplace, light from the window or a candle. There are no furnishings. Yet, this small cabin was home to history - from the man who used it for his U.S. Congressional office to the books he wrote detailing the history of Bates and Cass Counties. Simply called the "Atkeson Cabin", it is the focus of a major restoration program being undertaken by the Marais des Cygnes Society. When this project is completed next spring, the Atkeson Cabin will have a new home at the edge of a pine grove at Poplar Heights Living History Farm in central Bates county, Missouri. "This is an important part of western Missouri's heritage and we are pleased we are able to rescue and preserve this historic cabin, said Brian Phillips, 

Executive Director of the Marias des Cygnes Society. "We are fortunate to have engaged the Patton House Moving Company, known for their work on historic properties, to move the cabin. Work has begun at Poplar Heights Farm on the foundation and we anticipate the cabin will be moved in November, weather permitting. Then we have much restoration work to accomplish before a dedication planned for next summer."
 
The Atkeson Cabin will be used as a focal point for teaching visitors about the history of Bates county and the man who did so much to preserve her history. Plans are also underway to begin literacy programs for elementary level students in the area which would focus on reading education utilizing historic figures from the area's past. Anyone with information on the family of W.O. Atkeson, the cabin or his literary works is urged to contact Phillips at info@poplarheightsfarm.org. Updates on the progress of the restoration will be posted on the website: www.poplarheightsfarm.org under "News"

William Oscar Atkeson 1854-1931 Author Newspaper Publisher Congressman Born on a farm in West Virginia, W.O. Atkeson went on to serve as a U.S. Congressman from Missouri. Along the way he graduated college, taught school, became a lawyer, owned several newspapers, wrote history books and novels, and served on several state commissions. He is most known, however, for his "History of Bates and Cass Counties". Written in a log cabin just south of Butler, Missouri, it has become the premier source for western Missouri history and genealogy.