Wilderness Narrative

     The narrative of American bushcraft and survival is often dominated by tales of rugged men conquering the wilderness. Even though women's contributions to bushcraft and survival have been overlooked, their contributions to this field are equally significant and deserve recognition. They have been integral to the development of survival skills and community practices, often adapting and passing down knowledge through generations. From the 1700s to the present, women have played crucial roles in the development of bushcraft skills, survival techniques, and the broader outdoor culture in America. Their contributions have shaped the outdoor culture and continue to influence modern bushcraft practices.

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Definition of Bushcraft and Survival

     Before delving into the historical contributions of women, it is essential to define the terms "bushcraft" and "survival." Bushcraft refers to the skills and knowledge necessary for living in the wilderness, encompassing a wide range of practices such as foraging, shelter building, and fire-making. Survival, on the other hand, focuses on techniques for staying alive in emergency situations, often requiring quick thinking and resourcefulness. Both fields are interconnected, as the skills learned in bushcraft can significantly enhance one's ability to survive in the wild.

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The Colonial Era: Foundations of Survival

     In the 1700s, as European settlers established colonies in North America, women were essential to the survival of their families and communities. They were responsible for foraging, gardening, and food preservation—skills that were vital for survival in a new and often harsh environment. It was soon learned that Native American women, in particular, were key knowledge keepers, sharing their expertise in local flora and fauna with settlers. This exchange of knowledge laid the groundwork for a unique blend of survival skills that would evolve over time.

     One notable figure from this era is Mary Jemison (1743-1833), often referred to as the "White Woman of the Seneca." Captured by Native Americans during the French and Indian War, Jemison chose to stay with the Seneca tribe, where she learned their ways of living in harmony with nature. Her experiences were documented in "A Narrative of the Life of Mrs. Mary Jemison," providing valuable insights into Native American bushcraft practices and the blending of cultures in survival skills.

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The Pioneer Spirit: 1800s Expansion

     As the nation expanded westward in the 1800s, women continued to be at the forefront of survival efforts. Pioneer women faced numerous challenges, from harsh weather conditions to limited resources. They adapted traditional skills to their new surroundings, learning to hunt, trap, and gather food. Their contributions were often documented in journals and letters, providing valuable insights into the daily lives and survival strategies of women during this era.

      Women who traveled the Oregon Trail not only managed household duties but also took on roles as skilled foragers and caretakers of their families’ well-being. Their resilience and resourcefulness were crucial in navigating the challenges of frontier life. Notable skills included sewing, cooking, and herbal medicine, often learned from Indigenous cultures and documented in personal writings.

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The Civil War Era: Nursing and Survival Skills

     The Civil War (1861-1865) marked a significant turning point for women in America. As men went off to fight, women stepped into roles as nurses and caregivers, often in makeshift hospitals. This experience taught them valuable survival skills, including first aid, resource management, and improvisation in crisis situations. Many women documented their experiences, contributing to the growing body of literature on survival and care.

During this time, survival literature began to emerge, with some women authors writing guides that included practical advice on wilderness skills, food preservation, and herbal medicine. These texts laid the foundation for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.

• "The American Woman's Home" by Catherine Beecher and Harriet Beecher Stowe (1869) - While primarily focused on domestic management, this book includes sections on food preservation, gardening, and household management that reflect the skills necessary for survival during challenging times. The authors emphasize the importance of women’s roles in maintaining the home and providing for their families.

• "The Herbalist's Handbook" by Mrs. M. E. W. (Mary E. Wilkins Freeman) (1864) - This book serves as a guide to herbal medicine, detailing various plants and their medicinal uses. It reflects the growing interest in natural remedies during the Civil War, as many women turned to herbalism to care for the sick and wounded.

• "The New England Farmer" by J. M. (Josephine M.) (1860) - Although not exclusively a wilderness skills guide, this agricultural manual includes practical advice on farming, food preservation, and the use of herbs. It was aimed at women managing farms and households, providing them with essential knowledge for sustaining their families during the war.

 

The Early 20th Century: Institutionalization of Skills

     The early 20th century saw the establishment of organizations like the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, which aimed to teach outdoor skills to young people. The history of the Girl Scouts is intricately woven into the broader narrative of women in bushcraft, as it represents a pivotal movement that empowered young girls to develop essential outdoor skills and self-reliance. Founded by Juliette Gordon Low in 1912, the Girl Scouts emphasized the importance of outdoor education, including bushcraft skills such as camping, navigation, and foraging. This organization not only provided girls with the opportunity to learn practical survival techniques but also fostered a sense of independence and confidence that challenged traditional gender roles. By incorporating bushcraft into their curricula, the Girl Scouts played a crucial role in shaping a generation of women who would continue to advocate for environmental stewardship and outdoor exploration, thereby contributing significantly to the legacy of women in bushcraft.

 

Mid to Late 20th Century: The Wilderness Movement

     The mid-20th century witnessed a resurgence of interest in wilderness skills and survival techniques. Women became increasingly involved in survival schools and outdoor programs, both as instructors and students. This period saw the rise of female survivalists who challenged traditional gender roles and showcased their skills in various outdoor settings.

     The publication of survival manuals and guides by women further enriched the literature available to outdoor enthusiasts. These resources often included practical advice on navigation, shelter building, and foraging, reflecting the diverse experiences of women in the field. Notable figures during this time included:

• Anne LaBastille (1935-2011), an ecologist who authored the "Woodswoman" series and led wilderness workshops. Her work emphasized the importance of women’s voices in outdoor literature and education.

• Becky McKenzie (1940-Present) is a contemporary survivalist and educator known for her expertise in wilderness survival skills. She has authored several books and conducted workshops focusing on practical skills such as foraging, shelter building, and fire-making. McKenzie emphasizes the importance of traditional knowledge and has worked to bridge the gap between modern survival techniques and indigenous practices, inspiring many to reconnect with nature and develop essential survival skills.

• Mollie H. Beattie (1947-1996) was the first female director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. During her tenure from 1993 to 1996, she oversaw significant initiatives, including the reintroduction of the gray wolf into the northern Rocky Mountains and the addition of 15 national wildlife refuges. A wilderness area in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is named in her honor, reflecting her lasting impact on conservation efforts.

 

    The Foxfire Book series, which began in the late 1960s, plays a significant role in the history of women in bushcraft and survival by documenting and preserving traditional Appalachian skills, crafts, and knowledge, many of which were passed down through generations of women. The series originated from a high school project in Georgia, where students, including many young women, interviewed local elders to capture their expertise in various survival skills, such as food preservation, herbal medicine, and crafting techniques.

     Women featured prominently in these interviews, sharing their knowledge of gardening, cooking, and other essential skills that were vital for survival in rural Appalachian communities. The Foxfire Books not only highlighted the contributions of these women but also emphasized the importance of community knowledge and the role of women as keepers of cultural heritage. By documenting these practices, the series has helped to elevate the visibility of women's contributions to bushcraft and survival, showcasing their resilience and resourcefulness in maintaining traditional ways of life. Furthermore, the Foxfire Books have inspired a renewed interest in self-sufficiency and sustainable living, encouraging both men and women to reconnect with nature and learn essential survival skills.

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Contemporary Contributions: A New Era of Empowerment

     In recent years, the landscape of bushcraft and survival has evolved, with women taking center stage in outdoor communities. Social media platforms have provided a space for female survivalists to share their skills, experiences, and knowledge with a broader audience. This visibility has helped to challenge stereotypes and promote a more inclusive narrative around outdoor skills.

     Today, women are actively involved in various aspects of bushcraft and survival, from teaching workshops to leading expeditions. They are creating networks and organizations focused on empowering women in outdoor skills, fostering a sense of community and support. Notable figures include:

• Megan Hine: A survival expert and wilderness guide, Megan Hine gained recognition through her appearances on various survival and adventure shows, including "Bear Grylls: Mission Survive." She is known for her expertise in bushcraft and survival skills, and she has worked as a consultant and guide for numerous outdoor programs. Hine's presence in reality TV has helped to inspire and empower women in the field of survival.

• Kathy McGowan: As a bushcraft instructor and author, Kathy McGowan has appeared in various outdoor and survival-related programs. She is the founder of "Women in the Outdoors," an organization that focuses on empowering women through outdoor education. McGowan's work in reality TV and her commitment to teaching survival skills have made her a prominent figure in the bushcraft community.

• Jacks Genega: Jack is known for her engaging approach to bushcraft and survival skills on the YouTube series "Wildcard Wilderness." While the show features a variety of outdoor skills and adventures, Jacks often collaborates with other female survivalists and educators, showcasing their expertise and contributions to the field. Her platform helps to highlight the importance of inclusivity in the outdoor community and promotes the skills of women in bushcraft.

 

      Additionally, survivalist and educator Les Stroud has gained recognition for his contributions to the field, featuring women in his series "Survivorman." By showcasing female survivalists and their expertise, Stroud has helped elevate women's roles in the outdoor community, encouraging viewers to recognize the diverse contributions of women in this field.

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Challenges and Achievements

     Despite the progress made, women in bushcraft and survival still face challenges, including gender biases and body shaming in outdoor and survival communities. However, many women are actively addressing these stereotypes and working to create inclusive spaces for all outdoor enthusiasts. Community-building efforts, such as workshops and networking events, have become essential in empowering women and fostering a sense of belonging in the outdoor world.

     The history of women in American bushcraft and survival is a testament to their resilience, ingenuity, and contributions to outdoor culture. From the colonial era to the present, women have played vital roles in shaping survival skills and knowledge, often in the face of adversity. As we celebrate the achievements of women in this field, it is essential to recognize their legacy and continue to support and empower future generations of female outdoor enthusiasts.

     The contributions of women to the creation and development of American bushcraft and survival are rich and varied, spanning centuries and encompassing a wide range of skills and knowledge. From early pioneers like Mary Jemison to contemporary educators like Jacks Genega, women have shaped the landscape of outdoor survival and bushcraft to be more inclusive and accessible to all. Their legacies remind us that survival skills and a deep connection to nature are not limited by gender but are a shared human experience. By honoring the unsung heroines of bushcraft and survival, we pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse outdoor community, ensuring that the skills and knowledge of all individuals are recognized and celebrated.

 

 

Works Cited

Beecher, Catharine Esther, and Harriet Beecher Stowe. The American Woman’s Home, Or,  Principles of Domestic Science. 1869.

Butruille, Susan G. Women’s Voices from the Oregon Trail. Northwest Corner Books, Epicenter Press, 2018.

Cordery, Stacy A. Juliette Gordon Low : The Remarkable Founder of the Girl Scouts. Penguin Books, 2013.

“Georgia Bushcraft.” Georgia Bushcraft, 2015, www.georgiabushcraft.com/. Accessed 10 Dec. 2024.

Hine, Megan. “Megan Hine.” Megan Hine, 2014, meganhine.com/about-megan.

Labastille, Anne. Woodswoman. Penguin Books, 1991.

M., Josephine. New England Farmer. 1860.

Seaver, James. “A Narrative of the Life of Mrs. Mary Jemison.” Gutenberg Project, 19 Feb. 2003, www.gutenberg.org/files/6960/6960-       h/6960-h.htm.

“Survivorman - Les Stroud.” YouTube, www.youtube.com/channel/UCldHkhuiNeU3YFLmlFw4fvA.

Wigginton, Eliot, et al. The Foxfire Book. Anchor Books, 1972.

“Women in Exploration.” Women in Exploration, 2024, womeninexploration.org/.

Wildcard Wilderness, www.wildcardwilderness.com/.