The Longhunters

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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Historic Native Americans

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