Maltese Cross Cabin

by Ben Prepelka

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Maltese Cross Cabin

Artist

Ben Prepelka

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Theodore Roosevelt became the 26th President of the United States in 1901, becoming one of its greatest conservationists of the 20th century. His experiences in ranching and hunting in North Dakota would inspire his career-defining conservation efforts.
Roosevelt arrived in the Dakota Badlands in 1883 to hunt bison. Living on the Chimney Butte Ranch, also known as the Maltese Cross Ranch, Roosevelt enjoyed the outdoor lifestyle, participating in the life of a working cowboy. Located seven miles south of Medora, the Chimney Butte Ranch was known by an eight-pointed Maltese Cross brand. Used as a home for Roosevelt while he stayed in North Dakota, the Maltese Cross Cabin consisted of one and one-half stories, complete with a kitchen, living room and a separate bedroom for Roosevelt. After moving north to a newly established ranch called the Elkhorn, the Maltese Cross Cabin was claimed by other ranch residents.
The Daughters of the American Revolution eventually took over the care of the Maltese Cross Cabin, and acquired many of the items you may see today. In 1959, twelve years after the Theodore Roosevelt National Park was established, the cabin was returned to the park. Restored to its original state, you can tour the cabin behind the South Unit Visitor Center.

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December 10th, 2023

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