Can you imagine living in the heart of booming Houston, surrounded by nature, in a log cabin built with your own hands? This is the story of Edith L. Moore, who, along with her husband, Jesse, decided to build a home surrounded by the beauty of nature on the west bank of Rummel Creek in 1932. They called it “The Moore Log House.” Today, you see a plaque marking this historic landmark on the grounds of the Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary. The plaque tells a story of perseverance, environmentalism, and a dedication to preserving nature in the face of a rapidly growing city.
Standing before the plaque, you can almost feel the spirit of Edith Moore, a pioneer woman who loved her home and her vision for its future. In 1931-32, Edith and Jesse built their house using pines they cut from their own property. They even used salvaged sandstone curbstones from downtown Houston to build the fireplace and chimney. The couple made their living through dairy farming and logging.
As Houston expanded around her, Edith held onto her piece of nature, determined to safeguard the land around her cabin. Wanting to ensure her land remained protected for future generations, Edith willed her log cabin and 17.5 acres to the Houston Audubon Society in 1975. After her passing in 1975, the organization designated the land as the Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary. This sanctuary is a testament to Edith’s vision, a place where children can touch, create, imagine, and grow, forging a connection with the natural world.