Thanks for posting. You were right in questioning your father's declaration - you have an earlier 20th century replica. Several mold details to be aware of:
the cut corners of the shingles on the roof extend down two courseson the side, the K in WHISKEY has an lower leg which sticks out further than the upperand, I cannot see this clearly on your roof photo but it appears the S in WHISKEY is not entirely in line with the C in CABIN.
It appears yours has an applied top like the original Whitney examples which collectors tend to prefer. Although not an original, you do have a great original-looking piece.
I never miss a chance to plug Tom Haunton's great book called Tippecanoe and EG Booz Too! which is packed full of history, mold details and a breakdown of all known reproduction molds. Tom sells copies directly and on eBay.