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How to Camp Out
Many, if not most, are familiar with the writings of Kephart, Nessmuk, Beard and so on. The truth is, however, they were but few writers of their time, with other lesser known authors taking ink to paper, as well.
John M. Gould, also of that era, was also a writer of the time. Though not as popular, as say Kephart, his work, “How to Camp Out”, is none-the-less entertaining and educational. Written in the same style as those of the time, Gould takes more of an approach to camping. One, however, will still glean useful information. Of note, it is interesting how important weight, or the reduction there of, was so important to those men of the time. In Goulds case, leaving behind the knapsack in favor of a blanket roll filled with essential items. It is no surprise, when one considers the heavy, though high tech of the time, items.
Here is an excerpt of the beginning pages, so that one may acquaint themselves with this author
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The hope of camping out that comes over one in early spring, the laying of plans and arranging of details, is, I sometimes think, even more enjoyable than reality itself. As there is pleasure in this, let me advise you to give a practical turn to your anticipations.
Think over and decide whether you will walk, go horseback, sail, camp out in one place, or what you will do; then learn what you can of the route you propose to go over, or the ground where you intend to camp for the season. If you think of moving through or camping in places unknown to you, it is important to learn whether you can buy provisions and get lodgings along your route. See some one, if you can, who has been where you think of going, and put down in a note-book all he tells you that is important.
Have your clothes made or mended as soon as you decide what you will need: the earlier you begin, the less you will be hurried at the last.
You will find it is a good plan, as fast as you think of a thing that you want to take, to note it on your memorandum; and, in order to avoid delay or haste, to cast your eyes over the list occasionally to see that the work of preparation is going on properly. It is a good plan to collect all of your baggage into one place as fast as it is ready; for if it is scattered you are apt to lose sight of some of it, and start without it.
As fast as you get your things ready, mark your name on them: mark every thing. You can easily cut a stencil-plate out of an old postal card, and mark with a common shoe-blacking brush such articles as tents, poles, boxes, firkins, barrels, coverings, and bags.
Some railroads will not check barrels, bags, or bundles, nor take them on passenger trains. Inquire beforehand, and send your baggage ahead if the road will not take it on your train.
Estimate the expenses of your trip, and take more money than your estimate. Carry also an abundance of small change.
Do not be in a hurry to spend money on new inventions. Every year there is put upon the market some patent knapsack, folding stove, cooking-utensil, or camp trunk and cot combined; and there are always for sale patent knives, forks, and spoons all in one, drinking-cups, folding portfolios, and marvels of tools. Let them all alone: carry your pocket-knife, and if you can take more let it be a sheath or butcher knife and a common case-knife.
Take iron or cheap metal spoons.
Do not attempt to carry crockery or glassware upon a march.
A common tin cup is as good as any thing you can take to drink from; and you will find it best to carry it so that it can be used easily.
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Here, courtesy of the project gutenberg, is the book in its entirety… enjoy!
http://www.gutenberg.org/files/17575/17575-h/17575-h.htm
Source: http://dirttime.com/how-to-camp-out
