Winter Encampment February 10-12, 2006
The trekkers made their way up a canyon to a clearing in the sun and set camp. The snow had stopped falling, the clouds were clearing, and the temperature was rising. The group gathered a large pile of firewood since much would be burned to stay warm. Long Tongue ceremoniously started the fire with his flint and steel. Once this crucial task was accomplished, the search for a water source began. Most of the scout traveled up the canyon looking for any source of water that could be melted and boiled. About ¼ mile from camp was a small flowing spring, clear, and covered with only a thin layer of ice. Horsetooth dug out the watercress and dammed it up providing a great source of water (and food). A bit farther up the trail was a small, clear pool of spring water; we were lucky to find good water in such dry conditions. Several folks continued up the canyon scouting the area as the temperature warmed. After several miles two of the scouts came across signs of food. Deer fur scattered across the trail, then a large stomach, entrails partially covered over, more fur, a very large pile of debris scraped together. And finally, the fresh carcass of an 8-point buck deer that had been stripped of all meat. No meat on the neck, nothing between the ribs, legs cleaned down to the bone, no blood, heart, or lungs. This kill area had all the signs of a mountain lion’s work. There was no blood on the deer’s antlers and this deer was large. The mountain lion must have been stealthy and big; its scrape marks were at least 3 feet long. After deciding that there was no meat left for us to take, we quickly left the area, carefully watching our back trail, so as not to become the lions’ next meal. Late in the afternoon, back at camp (after several ambushes on the trail), the fire was blazing and the coffee was on. Food was brought out and it was fine vitals for all. Being fresh from the settlements our provisions included fresh pemmican, canned oysters complete with an oyster fork (thanks to Hands), atole, lentils, red chili, jerky, salt, coffee, and hard tack.
February 11: The day began to warm up once the sun came up. Flaming Canvas and a pilgrim went in search of food and tested their firearms in the cold conditions. Others stayed at camp as guards. Only one hostile with two dogs passed our camp, we let him go unmolested. But the conversation drifted to the taste of dog and whether a captive would last the night if left outside in the cold. The chances of survival would be very low. We passed the day scouting the area and comparing our gear. Some fine supplies from the settlements made their way into camp including Storm Dancers brass compass, a telescope, candle lantern, salt horn, wool toques, a frying pan, tomahawks, beads, files, three rifles, one fusil, and tobacco.
February 12: After a hearty breakfast and our scout complete, we broke camp and headed back to the settlements. The campfire was put dead out, gear packed up, and promises were made to meet again down the trail. One pilgrim, in his hurry to get back to warmer camps, left his food bag, powder horn and shooting bag hanging from a tree. (What pilgrim's name haven’t we mentioned so far?) Many lessons were learned, how to pack and carry gear, how to make a warm camp, trail scouting, ambush planning and avoidance, animal sign reading, and to never be with out your weapon. There were no injuries, the weather was perfect, water and firewood was plentiful, the food was excellent, and the company was worthy Thank you all for your willingness to experience some of what our predecessors went through. I think we have a fuller understanding and appreciation for our "hobby" after having completed this winter encampment. Redwing, having completed this trek, has now met all the requirements for the New Mexico Mountain Men Patron standing. He has participated in treks in all four quadrants of the state, completed a canoe trek, and a winter trek. Redwing has exhibited all the skills required and necessary to become only the second Patron in New Mexico. Congratulations to Redwing!!!! Storm Dancer |
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Storm Dancer & Horsetooth | |
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Hands | Lazy Horse |