The Evolution of the Great Lakes Logging Camp, 1830–1930

1. The popular image of the Great Lakes logging camp is derived in large part from nonscholarly studies, which commonly are based only on the recollections and reminiscences of loggers and often infer that a given type of logging camp was the only type used. Almost all of them refer to very limited places and times. As a result they do not present a completely accurate picture of the Great Lakes logging camp. For representative examples see: Robert W. Wells, "Daylight in the Swamp!" (New York: Doubleday & Co., 1978); Jack Rudolph, "Empire of Pine;' Wisconsin Trails 16 (Winter 1975): 30-33; Eagle River Centennial 1857-1957 (Eagle River, Wisconsin: Vilas County News-Register, 1957); Irene Hargreaves, Harold M. Foehl, The Story of Logging the White Pine in the Saginaw Valley (Bay City, Michigan: Reg Keg Press, 1964); Rolland H. Maybee, "Michigan's White Pine Era, 1840-1900," Michigan History 43 (December 1959): 385-432. 2. Evidence in any form on the early camps, circa 1840-65, is sparse, especially the written and photographic record. A complete archaeological excavation of a logging camp could fill in large gaps in our knowledge of these camps, but such a study remains to be done. For example, most logging histories describe "standard" or "typical" logging camps. These descriptions are usually brief and based on a limited variety of sources. Though some studies more or less infer an evolutionary sequence of development, none of them really analyzes this evolution in detail. Existing studies often fail to note that there were important differences among the camps constructed in different lumber regions and in different periods. Changes occurred in the locations, size, layout, architectural style, and interiors. Documenting and explaining these changes is complicated by the lack of remaining physical evidence. The camps were usually constructed for only a few years' use. As soon as the timber was cut, they were moved or abandoned. In most cases, they have completely disappeared from the landscape.4 Thus their history can be