‘Ol Spot Mortimer’s Cabin

This log cabin stands on the original site where it was constructed in 1869 by Samuel ‘Ol Spot’ Mortimer. Mortimer, a shoemaker from New York, came to Dakota Territory after hearing stories of the rich fur trade in the Big Sioux Valley. In 1869, he found his way to Oakwood Lakes and discovered a trapper’s paradise.

Otter, beaver, mink, muskrat and fox were abundant. Mortimer built this cabin and lived here for the next five years. By 1874, Mortimer experienced declining harvests from his traplines. Turning his attention to the area’s valuable timber, he built a sawmill and played an important role in providing the lumber for building houses and area businesses.

After the death of his wife, Mortimer left Oakwood Lakes and moved to Yankton, Dakota Territory. It was there he re-married, and soon returned to the cabin with his new wife and her children. They later made plans to sell the land. A warranty deed, dated October 20, 1886, records the sale of 1,200 acres of Mortimer land for $1,800 to Solomon Walters.

Today, Mortimer’s Oakwood Lakes homestead site stands as a reminder of the early settlers who ventured bravely into the new Dakota frontier. Erected to honor area Scandinavian immigrant families Hansen, Larsen, and Rasmussen by Descendants of L.K. Larsen.