Below is the handwritten journal entry for Day 3 written by Brett Kelley:
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A transcript follows the images.
“- Monday Feb. 8, 2010
Clear and cold today, the view of the Susquehanna Valley is inspiring. Museum intern Andy Novis arrived this morning to help make improvements to the cabin. He has been instrumental in making this project a reality and can state for a fact that these winter quarters would not be here if not for his efforts in acquiring the logs. Andy is completing the chinking of the logs, which means stuffing a mixture of cement bonding compound (SUBSTITUTED FOR CLAY), lime, sand, straw, and wood chips into the seams between the logs. I have temporarily stuffed hay between the uncompleted areas to fend off the cold. The cabin is becoming warmer each day as I master the use of the cast iron stove that I rely on as a source of heat. On my first evening I could not get a fire going for any length of time because of the green wood that I had foolishly supplied myself with. I have since been supplied with a supply of dry wood, and last night spent a warm and pleasant evening. I am also becoming accustomed to walking a picket post, although the danger of enemy attack is not likely to become a reality, it can be a challenge to venture out into the cold and snow to battle the elements and the monotony. Listening to the wind howl and watching the snow drift across the fields reminds me of a scene from the movie Dr. Zhivago. I hear that there is another storm coming, and I hope I am prepared to face more snow. The cabin is holding up well, and so will I. The food rations that I receive are the same that were eaten by soldiers 150 years ago, mostly beef, pork, bacon, hardtack, and coffee. One of my visitors brought me a home made loaf of German rye bread, for which I was very grateful. Cooking with raw food is something that I have never excelled at, or had any reason to. In the 21st century food in the United States comes pre-packaged, processed, and often times served by a smiling waiter or waitress. I will admit that I have played the part of the helpless buffoon that is almost starved if left without a can opener, or a friend to take pity on me with a home cooked meal, During this two week period I swear I will become self sufficient in the art of cooking and I will progress my skills….. to at least 150 years ago.”
Love, love, love the journal posts.
Poor Brett, more snow on the way!
Very interesting blog. My husband and I were re-enactors for many years and we have woken up to see our water frozen but I couldn’t imagine doing it in the snow.