One of the most challenging aspects of re-creating the lives and experiences of the original mountaineers, is re-creating thier diet.  Many modern obstacles exist- after all we cannot simply shoot a deer, elk or buffalo at will, and our modern preferences and habits have a tendancy of getting in the way.

There was an expression- "meat's meat."  One could not be fussy when starvation loomed, and any meat was as good any any to a gaunt and empty meat bag. 

The trapper's diet was likely over 90% meat protien, and on such a diet of lean wild meat, a man had to ingest large amounts to maintain vigor.  There are many accounts of men eating several pounds of meat at a sitting. 

However, his diet did include some wild vegan-sorts, such as camus root, bull berries, boiled thistle, etc.  And it should be noted that he did have general access to foods from the states form forts and the rendezvous, including flour, rice, beans, salt pork, bacon, hams, coffee, salt, black pepper, sugar, hardtack, pilot bread, dried apples- sometimes dried peaches, raisins, tea, and at least once-
sardines (although these appear to have been boxed and salted, as opposed to tinned in oil)  from W.D. Stewart's commodius cache of goodies. 

There are accounts of men in the west, making plum duff and rice pudding.  They fashioned biscuits and cakes from meagar stores of flour, and on rare occasions obtained butter from the stores of forts.
These above were certainly luxuries, and in short order, men were back to the feast or famine-meat's meat- and never enough of it- lifestyle.
A very grand campfire set up.  Yet, everything seen is proper not only for the period, but the place.

Instead of fire irons, a willow tripod is used.  Kettles of tin, copper and brass.  No enamelware here thank you.
Items coming here soon. Members can send ideas or favorite food items to the webclerk for posting here.  Check back again in the near future.