Foxfire Trading Company

On the Frontier

In the early 1700’s the land west of the Appalachian Mountains was a vast “untamed” wilderness, untouched by saw or plow.  This frontier was explored by a legendary group of men known as long hunters, who lived by their wit and brawn.  Equipped with only a “front stuffer”, a knife, a ‘hawk and possible bag these men lived for months in a land where they were often not welcome.

The Program 

Step back in time to the era of the fur trade and live as the long hunters did over 200 years ago. Learn the old ways of living on and with the land. This program takes skills learned in Scouting and in The foxfire Trading Company, combines them and puts them in the test. Participants will cook, eat, sleep and play just like the pioneers did. The uniform of the week is the mountain man shirt that you will receive at the beginning used by the long hunter. Other activities include muzzle loading, blacksmithing, leatherworking, tracking, ‘hawk and knife throwing, and other skills necessary to live on the land. No hunting or trapping is actually conducted on the Frontier!

To Participate

Participants must be at least 14 years of age, be able to pack their gear into a primitive camp and be confident enough in their outdoor skills to live away from the main camp. Scouts will not be able to take merit badges or participate in any regular camp programs. However, participants will journey back to main camp for the Wednesday Night Campfire.

The Cost

The Foxfire Trading Company on the Frontier costs an additional $30.00 ($40.00 for out-of-council participants). This fee covers the cost of the mountain man shirt, a knife kit and numerous small supplies for the week. Scouts WILL make many things to take home. Adult, two-deep leadership is provided by the Foxfire Trading Company staff. If a Scout is unable to attend camp during the same week as his troop, he may attend another week; the troop does not need to be at camp for a Scout to be on the Frontier.

What to Bring

      Class III medical & a signed CFR Informed Consent Form

      Natural color pants (brown, black, dark gray or dark green)

      Personal toiletries (i.e. toothbrush, towel, soap etc.)

      Bedroll or sleeping bag

      Rain rear

      Boots or heavy leather shoes (brown or black)-moccasins optional

      Water bottle

      Backpack (to carry gear)

      Extra shirts

      DO NOT BRING firearms, large knives, or any electronic gadgets

What to Expect

When participants arrive at camp, they will be taken to a separate area for a shakedown. The Foxfire Trading Company staff will conduct the shakedown with each Scout to ensure that only items need on the Frontier will be taken along. Participants will eat dinner in the Dining Hall at main camp. After dinner the company hikes out to the Frontier.

The Foxfire Trading Company looks forward to seeing you at The Rock this summer. Keep your powder dry!