Sidebar by Zebulon M. Pike
History – December 2006 – Colorado Central Magazine
“It being stormy weather and having meat to dry, I concluded to lie by this day. Here I must take the liberty of observing that, in this situation, the hardships and privations we underwent were on this day brought more fully to our mind, having been accustomed to some degree of relaxation, and extra enjoyments.
But here, 800 miles from the frontiers of our country, in the most inclement season of the year — not one person clothed for the winter — many without blankets, having been obliged to cut them up for socks, etc., and now lying down at night on the snow or wet ground, one side burning whilst the other was pierced with the cold wind — such was in part the situation of the party, whilst some were endeavoring to make a miserable substitute of raw buffalo hide for shoes, etc. I will not speak of diet, as I conceive that to be beneath the serious consideration of a man on a voyage of such a nature. We spent the day as agreeably as could be expected from men in our situation.”
Pike’s Journal Entry for Dec. 25, 1806
