Wilson says recreating the cabin is "something that we're really excited about."
Veterinarian Dr. Keith Grubbs, who has experience moving and rebuilding log structures, is helping with the project.
The logs that will be used are more than 200 years old, making the lumber period-appropriate. Wilson said that the logs have another relevant tie to Uncle Tom's Cabin, too.
"These logs were part of the Sandford house, belonging to Judge Sandford, the county judge-executive of Garrard County during the Civil War," explained Wilson.
The only problem, he said, is there might not be enough logs since the cabin will be rebuilt to the exact specifications of the original.
The Kennedy plantation
Meetings have been held with descendants of the Thomas Kennedy family regarding the project. It has been said that it was Kennedy's plantation in Garrard County to which Stowe referred in her novel.
Wilson acknowledged the project will afford Garrard County the chance to give tourists and residents alike a better understanding of its past. The recreation of Uncle Tom's Cabin also will open eyes to the many aspects of Garrard County.
"I think it will definitely help showcase our history. It will also give us opportunities to showcase African-Americans in Garrard County. This is just a great avenue to do other things."
The site will not just be a cabin, either. It will house historical artifacts pertaining to the Civil War.
As Wilson puts it, "This cabin will allow us to tell the larger story."
The idea, first floated about in the 1920s by a former Lancaster mayor, really gained traction when Wilson put together a tourism committee, and the chairman gave everyone homework. Wilson said the chairman asked everyone to write down elements of Garrard County of large historical value. Uncle Tom's Cabin topped most lists.
"Having Uncle Tom's Cabin in Garrard County is a tremendous asset, and it's really not just one person's idea."
Though nothing is firm, Wilson is optimistic the project shouldn't take long to come to fruition.
"I'd like to have it done by the end of the year."
