Polygamist Cabin

Rusted nails and farm tools from Lonely Dell's ranching days.

NPS / Amanda Rich

Quick Facts

Location:

Lees Ferry, AZ

Significance:

Lonely Dell Ranch Tour

Amenities

1 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

1925

Jerry Johnson, son of former ferryman Warren Johnson and wife Samantha, built this cabin as part of a polygamist haven. With the completion of Navajo Bridge in 1929, travelers bypassed Lees Ferry and the ranch grew quiet. Johnson and his family decided it would be a perfect place to live and discreetly practice their religion, which included plural marriages. At that time, polygamy was illegal and no longer accepted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. By 1934 the commune had relocated and new owners incorporated the cabin into their dude ranch.