MOUNTAIN MAN LIVING HISTORICAL ENCAMPMENT: MAY 12-14 AND MAY 19-20 AT LAKE MORENA VILLAGE

By Carl Costantinto

Photos by Carl Constantino and Debbie Parker

May 3, 2017 (Lake Morena) -- Step back in time at the 24th Annual Manzanita High Mountain Rendezvous. Meet colorful characters from the French and Indian War, thru to the North American Fur Trade era, circa 1750 - 1840.

See mountain men and women in period attire living in tipis and period tent encampments.  Watch demonstrations of the everyday skills of the era, such as starting a fire with flint & steel, how to load & shoot a flintlock rifle, throw a knife & tomahawk, and shoot a primitive longbow.  There is a blacksmith shop where you can watch and learn about the important work of the 1800’s blacksmith.  Or just relax and listen to period music being played under the shady oaks.  Bring your camera and come enjoy a trip back in time.

The purpose of the rendezvous was to provide a meeting place where the Trappers & Mountain Men (& Indians) could come down from the mountains, sell their furs, and restock on essential supplies.  Trader’s Row has all the goods a modern day mountain man/reenactor needs.  Everything from period correct camping gear, clothing, knives, tomahawks, blackpowder shooting supplies and much more can be purchased at the rendezvous.

This is a fun and learning experience for the whole family.  Open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (May 12^th, 13^th, and 14^th), and again the following Friday & Saturday (May 19^th, and 20^th).

Admission is just $5.00 per person, ages 10 & under free.  Military with ID also free.  Please, leave pets at home as this is a working ranch.  Feel free to bring a picnic lunch, or eat at one of our camp “restaurants”.

Located on the Northcote Ranch just outside Lake Morena Village, near Campo.  From interstate 8, take Buckman Springs Road south for 5.3 miles.  Turn right on Oak Dr. and go 1.3 miles.  Turn left on Molchan Dr. and then left on Morena Dr, then immediately turn right into the entrance at 2402 Lake Morena Dr.

For more information you can go to www.manzanitarendezvous.com.