It might be an interesting discussion to review all of the ways these bugs were dealt with in the 18th and early 19th C. I am not sure any of the old ways worked all that great, but I have found that a smokey fire helps keep them away. How early was bug netting used? I think most times folks just endured them. The best example of that I can think of are the Lewis and Clark Journals where they discuss the mosquitos.
I know some folks eat raw garlic cloves and that is supposed to help. I have also read that certain B vitamins will keep mosquitos from liking the taste of your blood so they stay away. I have read where its carbon dioxide that attracts them to you so if you just stop breathing, they will leave you alone...