hammocks

[david32cal]

anyone know of any 18th century reference to sleeping hammocks,anyone use one on thier trekks...thanks!

[Kermit]

Shipboard, yes. Stands to reason that some sailors might have taken the idea shore, but I have absolutely zero documentation. Sure would beat sleeping on the ground with crawlie critters. You could throw a piece of canvas over the top and keep some of the wet off too.

I'd be curious to know what you find out.

[Two Steps]

David..there's an article in either the latest Muzzle Loader or Back Woodsman...I think Back Woodsman...about hammocks.  IIRC there were a couple of references.  I'm at the shop now and the mags are at home...
Al

[sse]

anyone know of any 18th century reference to sleeping hammocks

Not sure, but just guessing, I'd say they didn't loaf around as much as buckskinners do now...LOL

[Trois Castors]

In Penatang,Ontario there is a Naval Base circa 1815(a bit later I know)that has hammocks in the barracks.
http://www.discoveryharbour.on.ca/dh/en/Home/index.htm

[No Deer]

I have wondered about hammocks also, but reasoned that probably not very practical when trying to trying to be somewhat concealed at night in the forest with unfriendlies about.

[Sir Michael]

I would think that the need to find two trees at the right distance to hang a hammock would be a bit of deterrent.  Easier to just lay the canvas on the ground and put the blanket over with maybe a second piece of canvas over that for cover from the rain/snow.

[Gordon H.Kemp]

I too would like to know if they were used on land "back when" . I do have the BW article but it dosn"t give much in the line of history . I think they were used more in the  humid tropical areas . Seems like they would be a bad idea in wind and cold climates ?

[david32cal]

i'm just trying to find an alternative to sleeping on the ground,back cant take it anymore.

[Gordon H.Kemp]

David , I have used one quite a bit , but it was 50+ years ago and only durring the "hot" weather " . Never tried one in the colder months . Biggest problem I found , was getting in and out of one , a little tricky the first few times . If you come up with historical information , make sure to post it . Thanks .

[pathfinder]

David,I use a 5"thickX6'4"long and 36" wide  piece of high density upholstery foam under my blankets,comfy as all get out.

[david32cal]

yea i thought about something like that,or maybe a small blow up mattres. this is starting to sound like an old geezer conversation,damn gettin old sucks.

[Gordon H.Kemp]

Dave , getting old has its problems , but the other option is final .


                               :th up

[pathfinder]

I've alway's said gettin' old aint fer sissy's!

Tried the air mattress thing,never found one that didn't eventually lose air. Seem's no matter how carefull you are,a small stick will ALWAY'S find a way in!

[Swamp]

This is starting to sound like an old geezer conversation.

I'm staying out of this! So Pathfinder, how's my rifle coming along?  :rotf