Things to Build With Lincoln Logs

Lincoln Logs were invented in 1916 by John Lloyd Wright, the son of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Lincoln Logs consist of miniature logs, notched like actual logs were notched to build cabins. Lincoln Log kits also include plastic pieces for roofs, windows and doors. The logs were made from real wood until the 1970s, when the manufacturer began using plastic. A decline in sales prompted a return to the real wood pieces in an effort to gain back popularity. There are some of the neat things you can build with Lincoln Logs.

Original sets of Lincoln Logs came with instructions for building Abraham Lincoln's and Uncle Tom's cabins. Consider looking on an online auction site such as eBay to find original plans for Uncle Tom's cabin. If you want to make Lincoln's cabin, Lincoln Logs sells a "Lincoln's Log Cabin Bicentennial Edition" of their Lincoln Logs that recreates the original set.

You can build the Big Sky Corral with a custom "Big Sky Corral" kit or use it to make your own corral. When your corral is finished, purchase a package of size appropriate plastic farm animals and farm vehicles at a dollar store or a department store. These cheap additions to your corral help complete the scene and make it even more fun for kids to play with.

Combine several sets of Lincoln Logs to create a wooden skyscraper. The skyscraper can be as tall as you want it do be, limited only by the number of Lincoln Logs you have. Add windows at various levels along the way. Since the logs are notched, even a tall log skyscraper has good balance. Kids love to see how how they can go.

Lincoln Logs has a set you can use to build a pioneer homestead. The set is called the "Conestoga Homestead" and comes with a covered wagon. You can grab a bag of classic plastic cowboy and Indian figures at a dollar store to add extra fun to the set.

You can combine Lincoln Log sets to build an entire 1800s cowboy town complete with outlying farmhouses. Adding miniature figures such as cattle, horses, cows, and townspeople help make Lincoln Log building sets into playsets that can occupy your children for hours.