The Kahl family of Huntley has a unique Thanksgiving tradition that includes 80 years of area history. The family feasts in the log cabin in Deicke Park. Huntley Boy Scouts built the cabin in Donahoe’s Woods in the late 1920s. Many Kahl family members, including the late Arthur Kahl, were involved with the cabin’s reconstruction.
The reconstruction was funded by a generous donation from Lois Deicke to the Lions Club on behalf of Chuck Lamb. With the work of volunteers, the cabin was refurbished as closely to the original plan as possible, with modern building techniques for longevity.
Today, Diecke Park visitors enjoy the rustic look of the cabin. For the past five years, the Kahls have used the historic cabin for their family celebration. It allows them to tune out the modern world and focus on the true meaning of Thanksgiving—appreciating loved ones.
"The kids can plan on the swing set, and we don’t have to worry about them tracking in the dirt," said Hoppy Kahl. "We just sweep it up before we go."
The Kahl celebration includes up to 20 people. After enjoying the delicious prepared grub, the family enjoys sitting around the original fireplace, roasting marshmallows and the intimate setting the cabin provides.
