The Muzzle Loaders of the Black Hills held their annual rendezvous last month at Flag Mountain/Hughes Draw, northwest of Hill City. At the rendezvous, a primitive camp, club members show what life was like in America before 1840.
The public is welcome, but to partake in events like black powder shooting, primitive archery and knife and tomahawk throwing, historical clothing is required. That’s not as daunting as it sounds, according to Paul Nelson, club member.”As long as people make a good-faith effort to give the appearance of pre-1840, that is good enough. We are always happy to introduce new people to our hobby and we all have extra clothes and gear to loan, sell, or give away.”
The club also explores the past at their monthly meetings at Cabela’s in Rapid City, monthly muzzle loader shoots and other events throughout the year. To learn more about the Muzzle Loaders of the Black Hills and their activities, visit their website, www.muzzleloadersoftheblackhills.com.
Photos by Trisha Schmelz.
