THE BUSH HUT

Articles In This Section:

· RANGER OR GYPSY TENTS AND TRAPPERS' BIVOUACS - Part 1

· RANGER OR GYPSY TENTS AND TRAPPERS' BIVOUACS - Part 2

· REED HUTS

· THE TRAPPER'S ROOF - Part 1

· THE TRAPPER'S ROOF - Part 2

The bush hut is the simplest kind of shelter to build in the woods. It may not look like much when you start it, but it improves from year to year. Look for a bush that has long, pliable branches and thick foliage. Bend the branches down in an arch, and fasten the ends to the ground. You might use strong rope on leather thongs attached to pegs. While you are doing this try not to crack any twigs or branches. Now weave other leafy branches in between the arch so closely that the wind will be efficiently kept out. This hut has the advantage of actually growing. The network of branches will get thicker and thicker and will soon look so natural that anyone not in on the secret will not guess the existence of the hut. Unfortunately, the foliage does not completely keep out the rain, and the hut is a useful shelter only in the summer. Nevertheless, it's a fine secret hiding place.