| OCR Text |
Show add 5/ "We just felt something was missing. Westerners, believe it or not, had history, men and events to be proud of. But until now, our history has been overshadowed and over looked. We organized to offer continuity to research, events and stir interest in the field," the government accountant explained. Since then, membership has mushroomed. There are now more than 300 members in all 50 states. There are even some in Europe and Australia. Another group with even a larger membership is the National Muzzleloader Assn. Its primary interest, however, is just the sporting aspects of the field. "It's a growing sport, because it offers something for everyone," Mr. James explained. "There is research for the history buff, shooting and the great outdoors for the sportsman. And for the wife and children, there are crafts and the excitement of being one with nature." Mr. James is particularly fond of the historical aspects of the sport. He recently completed a detailed study of the clothing worn. To be a member of the association, an individual must have a complete mountainman outfit, authentic to pre- 1840 mountainman period. They may be simple, made from hand-stitched light wool or elaborate like Ricky's. It includes a buffalo robe, beaver hat, elkskin gloves and fur boots, warm enough for the coldest of winters J "Through the years things-can get twisted, perios intermixed. We're trying to get the facts straight," he emphasized |
