Mountain Man Rendezvous

(Encampment WY)
A mountain man rendezvous, by the Sierra Madre Muzzleloaders, fulfilled something I had long hoped to see. During the early 1800s, trappers and natives would gather together to sell their bounty, and trade for supplies they needed. This small gathering, near where an actual one would have occurred, was recommended by an RVing friend.

Tents, wares, trees, field

Mountain Man Rendezvous

Traders were camped on the perimeter in tepees or primitive tents. They displayed their hand made wares in canvas tents or arranged on the ground. A blacksmith, demonstrated his craft. There was a delicious pig roast dinner one evening.

Bear rug, artifacts

Wares offered by a mountain man

Tent, wares, skins

Blacksmith tent

Competitions, for all age levels, were held in throwing the spear with atlatl, knives, hawk (tomahawk), and frying pans. Shooting bow and arrows, and of course, firing at targets with muzzleloading rifles and pistols. One mountain man even let me fire his rifle.

Boy throwing spear

Spear throwing with atlatl

Kids, log targets, tomahawk, knife

Junior mountain men practice hawk and knife throwing

Children’s fun included the Candy Canon that fired off rounds of goodies for them to hunt down. A make-shift swimming hole, foot races, and campfire starting without matches kept them involved. The children also competed in all the weapons events.

Man, tomahawk, targets

Mountain man throwing a hawk (tomahawk)

Men, food prep

Pig being prepared for roasting

Period gear was not strictly required; however there was enough to create the atmosphere. The laid back attitude made for a friendly and welcoming feeling. It’s likely I could have participated more in the skill events if I had asked. And, I was kindly allowed to camp on the grounds for free.

Man, rifle, smoke from shooting

Shooting a muzzle loading rifle

Mountain men, rifles

Group of mountain men shooting

There are larger, and more period authentic rendezvous held around the mountain west. If you prefer a small and relaxed gathering, this one would be a good option. I had a fun time, and would recommend it for those interested in frontier lore.

Camp: Grand Encampment Rendezvous Grounds free drycamp
Scene: Mountain men, tents, guns, knives, tomahawks, wares

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2 Responses to Mountain Man Rendezvous

  1. Judie Ashford August 24, 2015 at 1:46 pm #

    What fun! Looks like it would be more enjoyable than the great huge gatherings.

    Virtual hugs,
    Judie

    • Pleinguy August 24, 2015 at 7:55 pm #

      I prefer smaller events because of fewer people and the ability to connect with the presenters. This one was surely lots of fun.

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