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Scotty's building methods were erratic; a friend described them as "cosmic carpentry." Neglected once erected, some parts later became dilapidated - including the wooden walkway. While it lasted, however, this was Scotty's "stairway to heaven," a magical pathway high above the forest floor extending hundreds of yards along cedar lanes. It also afforded Scotty an unparalleled view of anyone approaching his treehouse.

For those approaching, the view was equally dramatic. On Scotty's semirural prop erty, past his farmhouse, a driveway extended to a small renovated barn. Past the barn, the driveway became not much more than a dirt path, which wound through some trees until it reached a meadow.

Here a narrow path led farther into the woods, which gradually became denser and darker. Suddenly the shrubbery thinned out, the surrounding cedars loomed larger, and Scotty's treehouse stood straight ahead. Unless a visitor were looking for it, they wouldn't see it right away. Then they'd notice the staircase, glance upwards, and gasp at the sight of Scotty's den. Was it really the highest treehouse the world? Seen from below, it certainly seemed so.

This was no simple tree cabin with four walls and a roof, but a multifaceted, multi-storey dwelling of around 1,500 square feet (140 square meters) with 30 windows, plumbing, wiring, sleeping loft, woodburning stove and fireman's pole for hasty exits, as well as small hidden areas - hideaways within the hideaway. The interior was well furnished, with a large sundeck extending outwards. "A landing pad for angels," Scotty said.

Adapted from Treehouses: The House that Jack Built, by David Pearson. Copyright 2001 Gaia Books Ltd., London; published in the United States by Chelsea Green Publishing Co., White River Junction, Vermont; or call MOTHER'S Bookshelf at 1800 888-9098.

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