Geologist's Cabin
The Geologist's Cabin in Butte Valley is a remote stone structure built around 1930 by Asa "Panamint Russ" Russell during his mining activities near Manly Peak. Located near Anvil Spring and Striped Butte, the cabin reflects the practical needs of desert prospectors working in one of the harshest environments in North America.
The building is a one-room stone and masonry structure with a cement floor, a fireplace, and multiple doors and windows for airflow. Its construction emphasizes durability and function over comfort, which was typical for isolated mining outposts of that era.
Russell also developed nearby Anvil Spring by constructing a rock-lined cistern to collect and store water. His efforts reportedly extended to growing Concord grapes, demonstrating a surprising level of agricultural success in an otherwise arid region.
Although Russell once claimed there had been an older stone house at Anvil Spring dating back to the 1880s, historical evidence suggests this may have been a confusion with a different site. The existing cabin is the primary verified structure associated with him in this area.
In more recent years, the cabin has been used occasionally by miners working local claims. However, vandalism and exposure to the elements have caused damage, including deterioration of the roof and an outdoor stone oven.
Despite these issues, the Geologist's Cabin remains standing and serves as a lasting example of early 20th century desert mining life. It offers insight into the resilience, resourcefulness, and isolation experienced by prospectors like Panamint Russ in Death Valley.
North and east elevations of "Geologist's Cabin" at Anvil Spring in Butte Valley.
West and south elevations of "Geologist's Cabin." Note remains of small stone oven on terraced area.
Interior along north wall of "Geologist's Cabin" in Butte Valley.
Interior view toward south wall of "Geologist's Cabin."
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Life on the Desert
by Panamint RussArchive Page
Source - NPS -- Historic photos Linda Greene - 1978