Leap into the past

The official name for the town of Encampment is Grand Encampment and it received that name because it was, indeed, a grand encampment for fur traders, mountain men and local Native American tribes to meet and trade. During the weekend of July 20, people can get a taste of what those times were like while visiting the grounds of the Grand Encampment Museum.

The Sierra Madre Muzzleloaders Mountain Man Rendezvous will begin on Friday, July 20, and will end on Sunday, July 22. Visitors to the rendezvous will be greeted by the sight of people in period garb and the smell of black powder. They can also walk along Trader's Row where they can not only view, but trade and purchase circa-1800s items such as crafts, metalwork and clothing.

Events throughout the weekend include a knife throw on Friday at 3 p.m. and a 'hawk (tomahawk) throw on Saturday starting at 3 p.m. with a chance to win $200 in either event. Entry fees is $5. Shooting events will also take place throughout the weekend with a chance for $200 in the women's aggregate, junior aggregate, men's aggregate and sub-junior aggregate. Single event entry fee is $20 and family entry fees are $30.

Rifles used in the shooting events must be round ball only and cannot use peep sights. The Range Officer's word is final when it comes to scoring and placement.

On Saturday night, people are welcome to enjoy a pig roast at the rendezvous for a $5 fee. As it is also a pot luck dinner, attendees are encouraged to bring a side dish for others to enjoy.

For more information on the Sierra Madre Muzzleloaders Mountain Man Rendezous, contact Josh Saier at 307-326-5503, Joe Morrison at 307-329-7944 or Crystal Gillen at 307-329-6961.