In usual fashion we discussed the priorities of survival. I began to construct a campfire showing the progression of tinder-to-kindling-to-fuel. As I battoned some wood to create kindling the boys were able to practice using ferro rods to light cattail fluff. After some coals were established I used two cans of different sizes to clam-shell over a yam and let it bake. Then I passed around some edible flora that I had collected earlier in the morning for hands-on inspection and tasting.

We spent some time learning different ways to create fire by using solar, electrical, and percussion methods. Everyone had a chance to try flint and steel firecraft and I demonstrated how to make “Quickie Charcloth” with which to catch a spark. We celebrated with each individual who was able to achieve this method of making fire!

Between classes Eustace Conway stopped by to chat with me about his vision for Turtle Island Preserve and that he encouraged instructors to include cultural aspects of our craft beyond technique and how they relate to sustainability in contrast to modern society.

You can follow the activities of Turtle Island Preserve at their website where you can register for classes and events that they offer.

Before the crowds arrive…

After I arrived at the FLT event and set up my demo area I saw a wide range of activities demonstrated by a range of other instructors such as blacksmithing, wood working, knife craft, blade sharpening, and many more. There was a variety of vendors offering items such as herbal tinctures, canned goods, natural paper note cards, fresh honey, framed photos, clothing, and keepsakes.

Eustace Conway, TIP’s founder was seen strolling throughout the grounds and I was able to listen in on a hillside talk in the afternoon. I began a friendship with Eustace some years before he was involved with the History channel’s “Mountain Men” series in which he and Preston Roberts, also on the grounds, have been featured in the last four seasons. For some of the attendees the Mountian Men series was their first exposure to Eustace, Preston, and TIP which was a delight to meet in person. There was close to 600 visitors in attendance for this annual event.

It’s always been an honor to participate on this special occasion held over the last several years. Not only am I able to share my skills and experiences with others but I am also enriched by the folks in attendance who share with me. I highly recommend this worthwhile event and encourage you to put in on your calendar for next year’s attendance.

It was a beautiful day for such an event even though there were pockets of icy puddles throughout the grounds. It was strategic to stand in the sunlight when possible. Eustuce began the instruction by telling the history of his efforts at TIP which included Spencer’s contribution thirteen years ago. Spencer, once a student, continued building his skill and returned this day as a teacher of the craft.

Although the majority of wood shingles are made from oak, this class focused on white pine which was the main resource at TIP. Whereas oak is split in a radial manner, white oak is cut in parallel fashion. This is all done with hand tools.

With a chain saw, Eustace felled the first of three white pines of the day. I was totally impressed with his skill as he selected the proper tree, called out the path among a stand of trees for it’s destination and then cut with precision and layed the pine right on target. He proceeded to cut out the segments that were to be split. He then demonstrated the splitting technique on one segment and groups of two to three students began to repeat the process on the rest. Spencer advised us on techniques that would benefit us throughout the day.

Having spent the day learning this skill, I will now be on the look-out to acquire the tools with which to perform this task on my own. As Eustace says, this skill empowers you to be self-sufficient. Now, having the knowledge and some experience, I will be able to teach others to do the same.

The day began with a tour led by Desere, the office manager of TIP. She has been there for eight years now and is a walking plethora of information. We as a group walked past many structures built throughout the years with differing materials and for different purposes usually with reclaimed materials or timber from the land. There is a saw mill on the premises that produces lumber, and on this particular day there was a separate volunteer crew led by Eustace Conway and Preston Roberts who were busy constructing a massive lumber storage building.

The focus of our group was the up-coming Families Learning Together (FLT) event being held on April 26th where folks can purchase tickets for a day to learn more about heritage skills and crafts. You can find more information and purchase tickets by visiting the TIP FaceBook EVENT PAGE or CONTACT them through their website.

The photo above shows the volunteers and interns as they gathered at “Nacho Mama’s” kitchen area where great food and fellowship was shared. I have been privileged to participate in various classes and demonstrations over the last several years and can attest to the awesome events, opportunities and experiences available to visitors. I am planning to demonstrate both primitive and survival skills at FLT and would love to see you there.

During the Open House events, it’s fun to hear the rumble of the horse drawn carriage throughout the day, loaded with visitors and driven by Eustace Conway throughout the grounds. Eustace was recently featured on the History Channel program “Mountain Men” and thus has drawn quite a bit of attention. Although television tends to exaggerate events to increase viewership ratings, my experiences have been delightful, and I hope that the television series will help to increase awareness of Turtle Island Preserve’s purpose and offerings to the public. You can visit their website at http://turtleislandpreserve.org for more information.