Canteens have
been around for ages in many forms and the military has used them nearly
continuously in every era. There is a question of whether the mountain men of
the fur trade carried them. My belief is that they did not, as I have never
read a journal that mentioned them, but that doesn’t make me right! Water is
plentiful in the Rocky Mountains and carrying water seems pointless and
unnecessary weight considering they were trapping beaver in water.
Today, however, regardless of where you go a
canteen is a necessity and even packing away a small water purifier if you are
in a remote location. In the days of yore, they did not have to deal with the
pollution we do, whether animal, factory, or pesticides. On our Ashley’s Return
trip, we carried water purifiers and used them, at times, no more than 20-30
feet downstream from animals urinating in the water!
While horse trekking, I recommend tin lined
copper. There are several makers, but copper is rugged and can take a beating.
I carry two with leather covers and adjustable straps to hang off the pommel.
When I do Revolutionary War events, I carry the proper tin canteen for a
militia soldier. Those I cover with wool and attach a strap to carry over the
shoulder. The one pictured is a Hessian canteen with a lid that is a cup.
When horse trekking, you can carry bulk water
on the pack critter. Use a one-gallon size for cooking, coffee and refilling
personal canteens. Pictured are some canteens I have carried over the years. I
do not recommend wood. If you use wood, it will last about as long as the
originals, 6 months or so. When trekking away from a clean supply of water,
carry a water purifier! Unless you are 100% sure of the water source, it is
better to be safe than sorry. Buy the best purifier you can afford and
replacement filters. Make a pillow ticking bag and tuck it away in your gear.
We carried two for six men and that seemed
about right. While boiling water eliminates bacteria in the water, it does not
make the water pure. Water can contain other contaminants such as
microplastics, pesticides, fertilizers, industrial chemicals, hormones,
medications, heavy metals, and neurotoxic microorganisms which are not removed
through boiling water. You will thank me one day for this tip!
My first event
of the year will be Guilford Courthouse and I hope to see some of you there for
a cup of coffee around my fire. If you are in the area stop by. Happy trekking
in 2024!