Shalda Cabin

Shalda Cabin is a restored log dwelling that stands by itself in a field beside M-22, just before CR-669. It likely dates to the mid-1850s, when Bohemian settlers built in the North Unity and Shalda Corners area. Coming from Glen Arbor, look for it on the right about 7.7 miles past M-109. Treat it as an exterior stop: public information doesn't say whether visitors can enter or where to park. If you take a photo, leave a little field around it; the cabin's solitary setting is part of the story.

The cabin shows hand-hewn log construction associated with the area's early settlers. Look at the corners: the logs are dovetail-notched to lock together, and their faces were hewn flat for a closer fit. It's a small detail you can notice from outside, even on a short stop.

Families came from Chicago in 1855, before each household could stake a separate homestead, so they built a 150-by-20-foot barracks divided into family rooms. North Unity later had a schoolhouse, sawmill and store, and gained a post office in 1859. John Shalda built a gristmill where the creek emptied into Lake Michigan. A fire destroyed the village in 1871; residents moved inland to Shalda Corners at today's M-22 and CR-669.