The earliest European
explorers, hunters
and trappers ventured west
of the mountains in the late 1500's.
This group arrived much later and after some discussion as to the best
location for their camp set up under a large rock overhang.
The
evening
was cool but they enjoyed the camaraderie that is common in such
groups.
As the night turned cold they selected a place to sleep.
There
were
a number of factors to consider. Where can one be close
enough to
the fire to be warmed but not so close that their bedroll catches fire.
The area near the fire is sloping so one may slide downhill overnight
and
as a result get either closer or further from the fire. If you are too
close someone may trod on you when they arise and wish to warm
themselves.
One must consider who in the group snores and where are they going to
be
sleeping. The rock overhang will produce a mighty echoing
resonance.
And the most important point, where are the rocks the softest.
A drizzling rain greeted the hardy band in the morning but that didn't
deter them from their tasks. Aware that there were Native Americans nearby, some
of the group stood guard or carefully cleaned and prepared their
weapons.
Others set up a rack on which to dry meat. They
enjoyed
venison
cooked over the fire, sauerkraut and dried corn that they had brought
to
sustain them. Later they spread several deer hides and
prepared a
frame on which to stretch them in preparation for tanning. Of course
there
was always wood to be cut and split for the fire. There was
even
a little time to enjoy making or listening to music. They
stayed
a second night before pressing on.
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