First Auto Camping Trip with a Model T
Posted: Sat Oct 05, 2024 2:18 am
Here you can view a short video depicting the camping setup:
https://youtu.be/op7aiyrqrOA?feature=shared
Longing for Adventure and Learning from the Sages
The acquisition of a motor car transforms transportation from mere practicality into a splendid gateway for adventure. Having primarily utilized my Model T Ford for quotidian errands, I found myself inspired by the delightful accounts of fellow enthusiasts who ventured forth into the great outdoors. Living in the resplendent shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountains only intensified my yearning to explore. Alas, my work commitments afforded little opportunity for spontaneous escapades. Undeterred, I delved into literature on the subject, immersing myself in books such as Motor Camping on Western Trails by Melville F. Ferguson (1925) (see: https://youtu.be/A1k0YRSJd5k?feature=shared) and Autocamping by F.E. Brimmer (1923) (see: https://archive.org/details/autocamping ... 7/mode/2up) to prepare for my own journey.
Scouting Trip
In the springtime, after thorough examination of local thoroughfares, I embarked upon a scouting excursion into the nearby mountains. I chanced upon Sand Creek Road, constructed in 1915, which boasted a gentle grade of no more than 6%. This rendered it an ideal passage for my Model T, allowing for a smooth jaunt at 30 mph from the valley floor all the way to General Grant Park, elevated at 6,000 feet. However, this inaugural day trip permitted only a brief sojourn to the foothills before returning home.
Gathering the Essentials: Preparing for Adventure
As the early summer sun blazed down, spurred by the camping literature I had consumed, I commenced the gathering of gear for my forthcoming journey. I envisioned the joy of our shared adventure, yet family matters soon intervened, compelling me to set my plans aside. Nevertheless, I persisted in collecting essential items, beginning with a Tourist Kitchenette that served a dual purpose as a running board refrigerator and water cooler, along with storage for victuals and dish pans. Among my supplies were white enamelware, adorned with a black trim—a cherished gift from my parents upon their transition from the farm to a modern abode—and an umbrella-style canvas tent that had also belonged to them. A generous friend, having noticed my running board kitchenette, gifted me a handmade camp box, which I had initially deemed superfluous. However, I swiftly recognized its worth for stowing fishing gear, larger pots and pans, tent stakes, a hammer, and a collapsible canvas bucket. I could scarcely fathom how I would transport all these items without that well-crafted camp box. For seating, I procured Gold Metal director's chairs, weathered from outdoor use, alongside military cots left over from the Great War. To complete my camping ensemble, I acquired a Prentiss Wabers Auto Kamp Kook Kit, a two-burner camp stove that would prove indispensable.
Finding Solace: Camping Close to Home
As late summer began to yield its sweltering temperatures to the briskness of autumn, I adjusted my expectations for camping, opting for a locale closer to home, by the San Joaquin River to the north of town. I discovered a charming spot just beyond the municipal limits and wished to invite my brother and his progeny to join me. Alas, with his wife gravely ill, it was not an opportune time for a family outing. Tragically, my sister-in-law passed away, prompting me to desire a night spent in the company of my brother and his family. I packed my gasoline burrow and, accompanied by my daughter, set forth for their domicile. After a 30-mile journey on improved roads, we arrived at my brother's abode, where a nearby rancher graciously permitted us to camp along the riverbank of the Kings River. Rancher Mike suggested the most picturesque camping spot was nestled within a grove of oak trees in a far pasture, but knowing how curious and disruptive the young calves could be, I chose to pitch our camp near the stable instead. The lush grass there not only provided a delightful setting but also afforded us the luxury of a campfire without the risk of igniting a grass fire.
Gathering Wood and Creating Sweet Memories
We first climbed into the Ford and drove to the locations the rancher had suggested, eager to gather wood for our campfire. The thrill of seeking out the perfect logs infused our excursion with a sense of adventure. We quickly discovered a variety of suitable sticks and logs, and as we toiled, I recalled a captivating recipe from Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts (1927) for a confection known as “Some More.” This delightful concoction involves the roasting of marshmallows, which trace their origins back to Egypt and are derived from the pulp of the marsh mallow plant. The recipe further includes milk chocolate, a charming innovation introduced by the English in the 1700s, and a cracker inspired by the esteemed Presbyterian minister Sylvester Graham, a Victorian-era reformer who advocated a diet devoid of meat, fats, spices, coffee, and alcohol to curb sexual urges. I doubt that Mr. Graham would have been pleased with the sugary creation that emerged from his cracker, but my daughter and her cousins took great delight in asking for “Some More,” ultimately abbreviating it to “S’mores.” As night fell, the ambiance was serene, enriched by the hoots of barn owls and the distant melodies of coyotes, while we engaged in spirited conversation and laughter around the campfire.
Pitching the Tent: Mastering Timing and Technique
After our revelries around the campfire, it was time to establish our encampment. Due to the spontaneous nature of the visit, my nieces and nephew were caught off guard and had to return home for a tent, toiletries, and other requisite items for camping, even though it was in close proximity. We quickly discerned the wisdom contained within the camping books: it is best to set up camp at least an hour before sundown. Stumbling about in the darkness with a flashlight, searching for supplies, and endeavoring to pitch the tent was less than pleasant. Lacking experience, I mistakenly drove the stakes into the ground prior to attempting to raise the tent, only to discover that this approach did not yield the desired result. After removing the stakes, I reversed my process. Regrettably, by morning, I found that the tent was not as taut as it ought to have been—partly due to one of the four support stops being absent. I had employed cloth electrical tape to secure that arm, but it proved inadequate, leaving it awkwardly protruding from the corner.
In contemplation of my trials, I recalled the wise counsel from Brimmer's book: “You can tell a veteran camper as far as you can see his tent pins, not only by the kind, but more by the slant. The best way to set a pin is leaning toward the tent, as it pulls out less easily than when leaning away.” I had initially thought to place the pegs perpendicular to the force exerted on the tent loops, but I now comprehend that this would result in the loosening of the pegs. One peg was particularly obstinate in retrieving from the soil, but after hammering it from the sides, it finally yielded, demonstrating the importance of aligning the pegs with the tension of the tent. Henceforth, I aspire to master the art of erecting the umbrella-style tent, which is, in essence, a straightforward design.
Nighttime Adventures: Lucy’s Chaotic Chase
With the tents, cots, and sleeping bags set up, we were finally prepared to slumber—well, most of us were. The exception was Lucy, my brother's family dog. She occupied the boys' tent, and initially, I left her on a lengthy leash. Regrettably, she ventured toward the edges and managed to tear the tent. I swiftly repositioned her to the center and secured her leash more closely.
In the course of the night, Lucy freed herself from her collar and began to explore. My niece came to her rescue, and soon Lucy was in the girls tent. As dawn broke, I took Lucy for a stroll, erroneously believing she would be well-behaved without her collar. This assumption quickly proved misguided. Lucy caught a scent in the pasture where the heifers and calves grazed. At first, I paid little heed, but then Lucy sighted a coyote and took off in fervent pursuit.
Chaos ensued as Lucy's escapade startled the mother cows, which began to stampede toward her. Meanwhile, the bull in the adjacent pasture, separated only by a road, became agitated. Fearing that the bull might exploit a weakness in the fence, I hastened to move, not wishing to become a target for its ire. Fortunately, Lucy returned to my side, and together we escaped the scene just in the nick of time.
Morning Light: Grateful for Unplanned Adventures
As the sun ascended, I could not help but reflect upon the night's unforeseen escapades. Despite the chaos instigated by Lucy's antics, the experience fostered laughter and camaraderie among us. It served as a reminder that camping is as much about the unplanned moments as it is about the preparation.
As I commenced the preparation of breakfast—a humble feast of oatmeal sweetened with honey and accompanied by fresh fruit—I truly appreciated the convenience of the camp stove. Though it took a while to ignite, it proved far simpler than the arduous task of kindling a fire. During our morning meal, we recounted tales of Lucy’s spirited exploits, and all present reveled in the delightful diversion this camping trip had afforded us. With the morning light spilling across the landscape, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the chance to forge lasting memories with family, even amidst the occasional tumult. I looked forward to future camping excursions, eager for the chance to create even more cherished memories together.
Enjoy!
Matt
https://youtu.be/op7aiyrqrOA?feature=shared
Longing for Adventure and Learning from the Sages
The acquisition of a motor car transforms transportation from mere practicality into a splendid gateway for adventure. Having primarily utilized my Model T Ford for quotidian errands, I found myself inspired by the delightful accounts of fellow enthusiasts who ventured forth into the great outdoors. Living in the resplendent shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountains only intensified my yearning to explore. Alas, my work commitments afforded little opportunity for spontaneous escapades. Undeterred, I delved into literature on the subject, immersing myself in books such as Motor Camping on Western Trails by Melville F. Ferguson (1925) (see: https://youtu.be/A1k0YRSJd5k?feature=shared) and Autocamping by F.E. Brimmer (1923) (see: https://archive.org/details/autocamping ... 7/mode/2up) to prepare for my own journey.
Scouting Trip
In the springtime, after thorough examination of local thoroughfares, I embarked upon a scouting excursion into the nearby mountains. I chanced upon Sand Creek Road, constructed in 1915, which boasted a gentle grade of no more than 6%. This rendered it an ideal passage for my Model T, allowing for a smooth jaunt at 30 mph from the valley floor all the way to General Grant Park, elevated at 6,000 feet. However, this inaugural day trip permitted only a brief sojourn to the foothills before returning home.
Gathering the Essentials: Preparing for Adventure
As the early summer sun blazed down, spurred by the camping literature I had consumed, I commenced the gathering of gear for my forthcoming journey. I envisioned the joy of our shared adventure, yet family matters soon intervened, compelling me to set my plans aside. Nevertheless, I persisted in collecting essential items, beginning with a Tourist Kitchenette that served a dual purpose as a running board refrigerator and water cooler, along with storage for victuals and dish pans. Among my supplies were white enamelware, adorned with a black trim—a cherished gift from my parents upon their transition from the farm to a modern abode—and an umbrella-style canvas tent that had also belonged to them. A generous friend, having noticed my running board kitchenette, gifted me a handmade camp box, which I had initially deemed superfluous. However, I swiftly recognized its worth for stowing fishing gear, larger pots and pans, tent stakes, a hammer, and a collapsible canvas bucket. I could scarcely fathom how I would transport all these items without that well-crafted camp box. For seating, I procured Gold Metal director's chairs, weathered from outdoor use, alongside military cots left over from the Great War. To complete my camping ensemble, I acquired a Prentiss Wabers Auto Kamp Kook Kit, a two-burner camp stove that would prove indispensable.
Finding Solace: Camping Close to Home
As late summer began to yield its sweltering temperatures to the briskness of autumn, I adjusted my expectations for camping, opting for a locale closer to home, by the San Joaquin River to the north of town. I discovered a charming spot just beyond the municipal limits and wished to invite my brother and his progeny to join me. Alas, with his wife gravely ill, it was not an opportune time for a family outing. Tragically, my sister-in-law passed away, prompting me to desire a night spent in the company of my brother and his family. I packed my gasoline burrow and, accompanied by my daughter, set forth for their domicile. After a 30-mile journey on improved roads, we arrived at my brother's abode, where a nearby rancher graciously permitted us to camp along the riverbank of the Kings River. Rancher Mike suggested the most picturesque camping spot was nestled within a grove of oak trees in a far pasture, but knowing how curious and disruptive the young calves could be, I chose to pitch our camp near the stable instead. The lush grass there not only provided a delightful setting but also afforded us the luxury of a campfire without the risk of igniting a grass fire.
Gathering Wood and Creating Sweet Memories
We first climbed into the Ford and drove to the locations the rancher had suggested, eager to gather wood for our campfire. The thrill of seeking out the perfect logs infused our excursion with a sense of adventure. We quickly discovered a variety of suitable sticks and logs, and as we toiled, I recalled a captivating recipe from Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts (1927) for a confection known as “Some More.” This delightful concoction involves the roasting of marshmallows, which trace their origins back to Egypt and are derived from the pulp of the marsh mallow plant. The recipe further includes milk chocolate, a charming innovation introduced by the English in the 1700s, and a cracker inspired by the esteemed Presbyterian minister Sylvester Graham, a Victorian-era reformer who advocated a diet devoid of meat, fats, spices, coffee, and alcohol to curb sexual urges. I doubt that Mr. Graham would have been pleased with the sugary creation that emerged from his cracker, but my daughter and her cousins took great delight in asking for “Some More,” ultimately abbreviating it to “S’mores.” As night fell, the ambiance was serene, enriched by the hoots of barn owls and the distant melodies of coyotes, while we engaged in spirited conversation and laughter around the campfire.
Pitching the Tent: Mastering Timing and Technique
After our revelries around the campfire, it was time to establish our encampment. Due to the spontaneous nature of the visit, my nieces and nephew were caught off guard and had to return home for a tent, toiletries, and other requisite items for camping, even though it was in close proximity. We quickly discerned the wisdom contained within the camping books: it is best to set up camp at least an hour before sundown. Stumbling about in the darkness with a flashlight, searching for supplies, and endeavoring to pitch the tent was less than pleasant. Lacking experience, I mistakenly drove the stakes into the ground prior to attempting to raise the tent, only to discover that this approach did not yield the desired result. After removing the stakes, I reversed my process. Regrettably, by morning, I found that the tent was not as taut as it ought to have been—partly due to one of the four support stops being absent. I had employed cloth electrical tape to secure that arm, but it proved inadequate, leaving it awkwardly protruding from the corner.
In contemplation of my trials, I recalled the wise counsel from Brimmer's book: “You can tell a veteran camper as far as you can see his tent pins, not only by the kind, but more by the slant. The best way to set a pin is leaning toward the tent, as it pulls out less easily than when leaning away.” I had initially thought to place the pegs perpendicular to the force exerted on the tent loops, but I now comprehend that this would result in the loosening of the pegs. One peg was particularly obstinate in retrieving from the soil, but after hammering it from the sides, it finally yielded, demonstrating the importance of aligning the pegs with the tension of the tent. Henceforth, I aspire to master the art of erecting the umbrella-style tent, which is, in essence, a straightforward design.
Nighttime Adventures: Lucy’s Chaotic Chase
With the tents, cots, and sleeping bags set up, we were finally prepared to slumber—well, most of us were. The exception was Lucy, my brother's family dog. She occupied the boys' tent, and initially, I left her on a lengthy leash. Regrettably, she ventured toward the edges and managed to tear the tent. I swiftly repositioned her to the center and secured her leash more closely.
In the course of the night, Lucy freed herself from her collar and began to explore. My niece came to her rescue, and soon Lucy was in the girls tent. As dawn broke, I took Lucy for a stroll, erroneously believing she would be well-behaved without her collar. This assumption quickly proved misguided. Lucy caught a scent in the pasture where the heifers and calves grazed. At first, I paid little heed, but then Lucy sighted a coyote and took off in fervent pursuit.
Chaos ensued as Lucy's escapade startled the mother cows, which began to stampede toward her. Meanwhile, the bull in the adjacent pasture, separated only by a road, became agitated. Fearing that the bull might exploit a weakness in the fence, I hastened to move, not wishing to become a target for its ire. Fortunately, Lucy returned to my side, and together we escaped the scene just in the nick of time.
Morning Light: Grateful for Unplanned Adventures
As the sun ascended, I could not help but reflect upon the night's unforeseen escapades. Despite the chaos instigated by Lucy's antics, the experience fostered laughter and camaraderie among us. It served as a reminder that camping is as much about the unplanned moments as it is about the preparation.
As I commenced the preparation of breakfast—a humble feast of oatmeal sweetened with honey and accompanied by fresh fruit—I truly appreciated the convenience of the camp stove. Though it took a while to ignite, it proved far simpler than the arduous task of kindling a fire. During our morning meal, we recounted tales of Lucy’s spirited exploits, and all present reveled in the delightful diversion this camping trip had afforded us. With the morning light spilling across the landscape, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the chance to forge lasting memories with family, even amidst the occasional tumult. I looked forward to future camping excursions, eager for the chance to create even more cherished memories together.
Enjoy!
Matt
