Coffee versus Tea in the New World | AESOP'S THE FOX AND THE GRAPES | 1700's | HISTORY | FRONTIER |

[@bobmiller4383]

I'm exceedingly happy that you are amused by the coffee horn , Peter . I was chuckling to myself during it's construction :- ] On another note .. Peter Kalm's " Travels in North America" in 1754 is a wonderful resource and I have been thoroughly enjoying the Swedish botanist's descriptions of his experiences. We would be much poorer had we not the benefit of being able to access these old journals. Perhaps, 200 years from now, folks will have the pleasure of reading yours :- ]

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

More than amused my friend, actually the whole thing, horn, fable and letter made me laugh out load. As to the journal musings, well I have a nice new leather bound one for that very purpose. Cathy and I really enjoyed producing this episode. Thanks again.

[@lancehenderson7249]

The wee bit about the history of whiskey, kinda makes me proud of my heritage. English, Scotland, and Ireland. Still like my Bourbon. Can't blame Kathy for being worried about you falling off the roof. The fort is coming along nicely. Great video, Peter and Kathy. Keep your powder dry. Till next time

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

And so you should sir, and so you should! Thanks for the kind words.

[@irbfenian2594]

I think that is the most beautiful thumbnail for a vid I've seen

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you so much.

[@markaugustus621]

At my age peace is much more important than anything else. Watching you brings peace. Tnanks

[@bombadilloB]

Now THATS dedication to playing with friends!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Sadly the last chess game was 55 years ago and over time we’ve fallen out of touch.

[@kellydietz6720]

I got to enjoy this episode in my new cabin and I've filled it with spinning wheels, and wool fleece. ❤ it's so wonderful.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks again, Kelly, for sending that beautiful blue dress!

[@kellydietz6720]

I think you both are wonderful and I pray I get to see you both in person. Big hugs 💖

[@lowellanderson6532]

A most pleasant presentation, Peter. What could be finer on a cold morning than a cup of hot coffee and a hand-written letter from friends? Very nice indeed...

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I agree but, I can get a cup of coffee anytime, getting a hand written letter is a rare thing these days

[@richardliles4415]

It’s always so nice do you see the camera change directions, even if so lightly, because then I know the two of you are together making us another fine video. Thank you Peter, thank you Catherine.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That’s sweet Richard and yup, we are indeed two peas in a pod.

[@missleeny5042]

The image quality is so stupendously good that i honestly expected to smell the woodsmoke , and i felt that i was right there , fireside , with a cherished friend . Thanks to both of you , i cant express how happy your videos make me , as i while away hours watching them . 😊😊❤❤

[@bendonaldson1734]

My wife and I enjoy your videos very much!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you like them, Ben . We certainly appreciate your interest and support.

[@guysview]

Your channel is fine on so many levels and so many ways. I watch it to get peace in my life. Thank you for that.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It is really nice to hear that our channel can bring someone peace … about as flattering as it gets.

[@JanTrewhitt]

What nice gifts you got from your friends! Enjoy!! Blessings to you and Cathy.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

They are indeed, Jan. Nothing beats a gift that is hand made!

[@ianandresen2326]

Great video! I always get inspired after watching!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Heck Ian, I play at it, you live it but, I do thank you for the kind words.

[@victortuten4399]

It's hard to beat a hot cup of coffee made from dark roasted beans! I have a book of Aesop's fables I read to my granddaughter. She doesn't get many of them now but being 3 it is interesting to talk to her about them. Her way of understanding is enlightening to me.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Personally, Victor, I often find having conversations with 3 year olds more interesting than a lot of adults I’ve conversed with. I totally agree on a your opinion of a fine dark roasted bean.

[@auntyflo-fv1oc]

So true what you say about patience and letters. It is a sad condition in South Africa, where the post office no longer functions. I have not had mail delivered for over three years and live in a seaside suburb of Cape Town. Parcels are only delivered by courier and physical letters are in the past. Watch out world, it could happen to you..... Thank you so much for your nicely done videos - very much appreciated. 🙂

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I did not have any idea that the postal system was defunct …. How sad is that!

[@auntyflo-fv1oc]

It is so, in amongst the exceedingly high and rising violent crime rate, high unemployment, political instability, weak currency making everything super expensive, what is heartening and good is that people are still happy, friendly and finding time to have fun. 🙂

[@rivaest38]

Hi Peter. A lovely film as always and enjoyed your bit of tea history. This is slightly off piste but you’ll see the connection as I ramble on…..if you can stay awake long enough! As you rightly say, tea and coffee were the preserves of the wealthy in England. However, in the 1700’s coffee became ‘cheaper’ and so was more available to those that were wealthy but not as wealthy as the very richest members of British society and so coffee shops began to spring up in the more affluent towns and cities but as you would expect, most were in London. The London coffee scene grew up in parallel with the expanding news paper industry and the wealthy began to meet in the coffee shops to read the latest news and discuss the big issues of the day. The clientele of these establishments would be made up of quite a diverse group that included the political elite, poets and artists. One regular visitor was Sir Francis Dashwood of Dashwood House, West Wycombe, a small village a few miles west of High Wycombe which in turn is roughly 35 miles to the west of central London. Sir Francis would be what was described in those days as a bit of a Rake which according to the Cambridge English Dictionary is defined as ‘A man, especially one who is rich or with a high social position, who lives in an immoral way’ among other traits that I am too polite to mention here but involved certain types of ladies, not all of whom were from a lower social standing! Now Sir Francis was the 11th Baron le Despencer (1708 - 1781) and was at one time the Chancellor of the Exchequer. He moved in high society and as a Member of Parliament he knew all the eminent politicians of the day. ‘What’s that got to do with coffee?’ I hear you cry! Well, from these coffee houses sprung some of the early ‘Gentlemen’s Clubs’ but most notoriously, Sir Francis formed what was to become popularly known as the Hellfire Club! After early meetings at various locations including Dashwood House, Sir Francis least the ruined Medmenham Abbey that sat on an island in the River Thames a few miles hard riding across country from his Country Estate. Members were invited to join and the membership was drawn from high ranking politicians and the wealthy of High Society including Royalty. It is claimed that Benjamin Franklin was also a member but some sources contest this idea but it is certainly true that Franklin and Sir Francis were close friends and so it is highly probable that he was a member. The Hellfire Club had various names but was originally known as the ‘Order of the Knights of St Francis’ and they used parodies of Church festivals and Services as backgrounds to their meetings of drunkenness and debauchery where their deities were Bacchus and Venus……you get the idea! The Club eventual moved from Medmenham after the group were exposed in the Press and found a new home in the chalk caves carved out in the hillside opposite Dashwood House. The caves were originally old mine workings but Sir Francis expanded them years before moving the Club there when he paid for a project to build a road from West Wycombe to High Wycombe to give employment to the local population, all very convenient as it turned out. The caves can still be visited today. My parents took us kids there for summer Sunday picnics in the late 1960s. You can read much more about all this on Internet and there are some good books on the subject. As for tea, no such sordid tales to tell I’m afraid but with the rural population moving more and more to the industrial towns for work as a result of the Industrial Revolution and the price of tea becoming far, far cheaper, it became the drink of the working people and as a result public health began to improve. It wasn’t the tea itself that brought about the change, it was the fact that the water used to make it had to be boiled therefore killing the nasty bacteria that caused the death of so many. I’ll leave you in peace now Peter! 🤣 Best wishes, Mark

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Far from putting me to sleep,Sir. What a grand wee bit of history. Those Rakes! I’ve no doubt old Ben was indeed a member. Thanks for sharing.

[@carolinereisinger4070]

Oh my friend.. As many wounderful things modern technologies bring us, I would give it all up in a blink of an eye, to go back to times where we sat around the camp fire and shared stories. Sharing time with eachother over dinners or just a simple gathering to feel the community of being together. How I miss it and yern for it still.. thank you for your heart felt video's. I am most grateful.. Hoping this note finds you and yours, healthy and happy for this new year. Sending love and light, always.. 🪶🍁💮

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You are certainly spot on, Caroline. We have lost so much of what you mentioned in this modern world of ours. At my age, a Rocky chair on my porch and a sunset is a perfect ending to ones day.

[@timkraft4583]

My father has kept a journal even in these modern times. I think real print is important. It may be the only lasting documentation.

[@jamesvatter5729]

That new wool shirt looks great, Peter.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks James and it’s darn comfortable and warm to boot!

[@jimf1964]

From your reading of the letter I was thinking the same thing. It must have been wonderful, in a way, to have to wait for things like letters. Imagine even having to wait maybe a month to hear from someone over seas. The joy in receiving it. I recently read The Backwoods of Canada, by Catharine Parr Traille. Of you haven’t read it, it was from a school teacher, married to a retired British officer, who was granted a parcel of land in upper canada village. The book is based on her letters home, mostly to her mother. It was a little more modern than your era, around 1830, but it was almost the exact same time as my ancestors arrived and moved to a township in New Brunswick. Unfortunately they decided to modernize the English, but still a great read. As for the coffee, as I understand it, the UK was a great coffee fan, but there was a blight in their colonies, and ruined the trade, so they switched to tea, and the rest is history. I’m curious about foot wear back then, and how they handled moisture, or actual wet snow, mud etc…. Have you done a video on that?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks Jim for the recommendation, I’ll be checking it out. Winter is a good time to saddle up to the fireplace with a good read.

[@paulroberts216]

Awesome Stuff, Amazing to see people like you keeping the old stuff alive. God bless you.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks so much, Paul. We appreciate your interest and support.

[@antonio1616]

Love listening to you talk Peter 😎

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That’s flattering, Antonio, thank you.

[@missleeny5042]

Anything you say is great , but i was deeply moved by your song about Chief Logan (Spreading Oak) . You did a beautiful job . What is Spreading Oak in his native language , do you know ?

[@robertwiggins4921]

"Aesop's fables" lessons to live by!! Loved it! The pewter inlay on the horn is very good quality. I'm impressed with that. I just finished another scrimshawed 1747 map horn and have been pondering what I want to do to the flat plug end. Hmmm!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Now that you’ve brought up pewter on a powder horn you have me thinking as well.

[@missleeny5042]

Ps watching and listening to you is like hanging out with a wonderful friend who is loaded with valuable knowledge and experience . You reach people like me , and many others in such a meaningful way ; showing us how to get back to a simpler , happier and more nature friendly life . Your work is so important !!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

How sweet are your words, thank you so much.

[@leahmacquarrie7492]

Great video…I would add that as exciting as receiving a letter is, the act of writing one is an equal gift. The serene act of writing your thoughts down is as good as journaling. Taking time with yourself and reflecting the moments in your life you want to share is cathartic and meditative. 🤗 I spent 4 days in your wonderful woodland cabin journaling my adventures. I think of it as letters to my future self. Thanks for providing such a great creative place to collect my thoughts.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That is awesome Leah. It is wonderful to hear that you were able to have such a wonderful experience. You are welcome back to The Woodland Escape any time.

[@2gpowell]

Hi Peter, nice to see you! Thanks, enjoyed the coffee time history bit. Take care see ya on the next 18th century adventure! 👍

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You bet Gil, more to come!

[@stephencritchley9355]

You brought a chuckle to me with the journal & cursive writing. I have kept a fancy journal of witticisms, jokes, sayings etc all written in cursive by fountain pen (no quill!!) My now 20 year old granddaughter wants this journal after my demise but cannot read the cursive (no longer on the curriculum). So the challenge- learn to read cursive & the journal is yours. Thanks for the reminder.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

And a fine challenge it is, Stephen. Your granddaughter will never rue the day she learns cursive and I’m sure thank you for it. I too have a 20 year granddaughter… we must be about the same vintage.

[@stephencritchley9355]

@@TheWoodlandEscape Three score years & ten young man. Lol. She'll do it!!

[@beverlymichael5830]

It was always a great time to get a letter in the mail. Chess by mail reminded me when I was in school I played monopoly by phone. Every night at 6 pm we played by phone with each having a board set up. It took all summer to finish the game. I had forgot about that. Thanks for sharing

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That’s a fun story Beverly. I’m thinking monopoly by fun allows for a whole lot of cheating as opposed to chess ,lol. Now I’m not suggesting that you would Beverly but, did you wonder if your opponent was telling you their real dice roll. I suspect you played your game as much for the camaraderie as to who would win the game.

[@christiaankruger3713]

Thanks again that we can share your fire and stories and even those precious gifts with you. Thanks for posting on Friday that I won't have to wait for midnight on a Sunday to watch this great journey. It is very warm and dry here in South Africa. We hope for some rain again. Be Blessed

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We try to gets new out every Friday by noon our time. Sorry to hear of your drought, hopefully you get that needed rain soon. Our winter has been very strange,with higher than average temperatures and little snow. Can’t help but think that we are killing this beautiful planet.

[@christiaankruger3713]

@@TheWoodlandEscape, I need to work the whole week to make a 6 minute video to send out on WhatsApp on Sunday morning. But I do two one in English and one in Afrikaans. 6 minute is the maximum that Whatsapp size allow.

[@kevendrover2442]

Patience,another blessing lost oh the joy of technology .

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It certainly seems that way, Keven.

[@hayward434]

Thank you for yet another interesting and informative video. I remember my Dad always poured out the first bits of tea into, and sipped it from his saucer. I have been advised many times to remember the fox and grapes fable.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Interesting, I’m assuming that was to cool the first sips a wee bit. Funny, I can still hear my mother reading that fable, many, many years ago.

[@danielirvine3109]

I love all your videos. thanks so much for doing all you do.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You are so welcome, Daniel, we have a lot of fun producing these episodes.

[@dwayneprimeaux9017]

Oh to be way out in the beauty of nature, i need a weekend in the woods….😁

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It's a great place to be! We can all benefit from a wee bit of nature!

[@MrDerJohann]

Thank you and hello from Germany 🇩🇪♥️🇨🇦

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Hello there from Canada. We appreciate your interest in our channel.

[@blueberrysue]

We love your videos and your wee little history bits. Really inspirational shows.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you like them, Susan. We certainly appreciate your interest in our step back in time endeavor.

[@markbehr88]

HNY. Very interesting. Thank you.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

And to you, Mark. Glad you enjoyed.

[@randysmith1511]

Nice video, thoroughly enjoyed it.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks, Randy.

[@garyrichardt1496]

Many thanks for another great and informative video.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Our pleasure, Gary, glad you enjoyed.

[@unclearthur9192]

G'Day from Australia, I am enjoying watching your videos. The first one that I watched was on making a hunting shirt. About 30 years ago I gave up muzzleloading and reenacting. This year I've decided to begin shooting my muzzleloaders again---a Brown Bess and three Enfields( two 20 gauge smoothbores-- a 36 " barreled musket and a cavalry carbine as well as a .58 musketoon). I need to replace my powder horn that I foolishly sold and some clothing---that's why I looked up your video(s). I have to agree that patience is no longer considered to be a virtue. Everything has to be now, or sooner! While it is good to be able to be in instant(almost) contact with a friend or loved one, receiving or sending a letter or parcel remains a joy. When I was reenacting or doing "living history" I developed a liking for Lapsang Souchong tea. It had a smoky flavour that I realy enjoyed. I first came across it after watching the early episodes of the series "Centennial". One of the early fur trade characters bought some at a rendezvous. It seems to have disappeared off the supermarket shelves. I may have to try and buy it on line from a tea supplier. Thank you for your videos. They don't just show how to make gear. You recreate the atmosphere of past times. Cheers, Steve

[@unclearthur9192]

Don't know how I ended up with a line through " a Brown Bess and three Enfields--- etc". Gremlins! Steve

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Those darn Gremlins! They say once you’ve tried muzzleloading you’ll be hooked. It appears, Arthur that you’ve returned to the flock. Before you know it you’ll be dusting off the old clothes and sleeping on the ground. We appreciate your interest and support of our channel.

[@stanleykilgore3455]

Love your videos look forward to each one I’m going to try my hand at making a buckskin shirt when the weather breaks

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Good for your Stanley. If you use brain tanned deer hide you’ll find them quite cool to wear in the summer as opposed to commercial tanned.

[@kendavis511]

WE SO ENJOY ALL YOUR VIDEOS IN THE ROCKY MTS. LOVE PASSING ON. KEN DAVIS

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We sincerely appreciate your support and interest, Ken.

[@therealhellkitty5388]

Made pea soup today, it’s wonderful!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

One of my favorite soups!

[@lancehenderson7249]

Another great video Peter, interesting about coffee and tea. I really enjoy coffee, but raised in a family of English and Scottish descendents, tea was everyones go to drink. Keep the videos come Kathy. Watch your top knot

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You can reverse the order our house, Lance, but, when I go trekking I tend to take tea as it’s much easier to make. Watch yer top knot!

[@jamescavner4242]

It is important to record it, repeat it and as often as possible relive it! In some small part we become something greater than our today’s, but stewards of our future, by understanding our past! I am because someone was! A great video. As Scotch-Irish myself, coffee has always been king..🙂

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Well said,James. Such a profound view of our past, present and future. Thanks so much for sharing.

[@earlshaner4441]

Good morning from Syracuse Ny USA brother and everyone else thank you for sharing your adventures in history

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks for watching, Earl.

[@earlshaner4441]

I enjoy your video today

[@alanpinn2266]

Well there's a sight I remember from years gone by - Peter roasting coffee beans on an open fire! Even the same pan I think! I can smell those beans and almost taste that coffee all the way to the East Coast. Keep up the good work my friend and stay warm. Cheers!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Same pan, same technique,the only thing missing is you sitting by my fire sharing a cup!

[@alanpinn2266]

Some day fine sir! I maybe heading your way in early summer.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Look forward to a visit … we’re right on route.

[@charlesmay8251]

i m enjoying your stories from Virginia.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad to hear that Charles, appreciate your interest.

[@guyinacoffeeshop2239]

I love watching your videos. It's nice to see someone else other than myself who has a passion for frontier history. See you on the Frontier! From your american friend.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks for your interest and support. Keep yer powder dry.

[@kevinthorrington2131]

My paternal grandparents immigrated from England later 1800's to upper peninsula of Michigan. My maternal grandparents were french Canadians who immigrated to upper peninsula. My dad drank tea and my mother drank coffee. Dad wouldn't drink coffee and mom wouldn't drink tea. It made for an interesting marriage.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

There be no conflicts on who gets the last cup left in the cupboard and I suspect there might be worse things a couple might have differences about, lol. Makes you wonder why your maternal grandparents moved?

[@jeffgrier8488]

Thanks for another great video! The digital age has definitely ruined the personal connection that an actual letter brings. I still remember sending letters all the time and i rather enjoyed it. I really should find someone to correspond with, it would be refreshing.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I totally agree, Jeff, it has become a rare thing indeed.

[@tammyevans7333]

Thank you!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Always a kind word from you,Tammy, thanks so much.

[@gailsgardenherbsmore1605]

I was thinking...someone a hundred years from now may find that letter and say, 1776?... but the paper seems to be more modern than that....hmmm a puzzle. Of course by that time all may be so dumbed down that they wouldn't even investigate! Lol. Enjoy your coffee! Thanks, Peter.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We do seem be be dumbing down. We have a grade one reader published in 1894 and what a 6 year old was required to learn then compared to now is astounding. By the way, my coffee was outstanding!

[@marieleopold1625]

WHAT a homey homestead you have! A place 4 everything and everything in it's place = LOVELY! You do have some very nice friends, like bees (friends) attracted 2 sweet flowers (U an' Catherine). I appreciate the interesting 'wee bits of history'...and so the debate/division continue...coffee? tea?. Personally, I am grateful 4 whatever is placed B 4 me. I should like 2 know what U think of the 'French' coffee though! Perhaps a; '2 B continued.' vid? LOL! Aesop taught us many good lessons...the fox may have cunning, but truth evades him. “Black as the devil, hot as hell, pure as an angel, sweet as love.” Charles Maurice de Talleyrand 1754-1838 Quote of a 'connoisseur' no doubt! Thanks 4 the fascinating vid Peter and the 'en'deer'ing filmography Catherine. Health dear ones, and God Bless! :)

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

A place for everything indeed, except when you’re trying to find that certain item, lol. As to the French roast, well, I would say just grand! I do enjoy a strong brew and always add a wee bit of maple syrup to take away the bitterness. I said it before Marie, I so look forward you comments, they brighten my day.

[@jamesmiddleton1278]

Thank you for a nice relaxed start to the morning. Tea all the way for me, I’m afraid. Lovely pewter work on that flask, I’ll have to find out more about that craft.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Your very welcome James and Bob sure did a fine job on the pewter.

[@krockpotbroccoli65]

I drink coffee in the morning, tea in the afternoon and whiskey at night.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Man of my own heart.

[@paulettemann500]

Good one also. Enjoyed it. How was yeast obtained to make bread?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks, Paulette. For the most part breads were sourdough and the starters simply fixed the live yeast from the air. Many a sourdough starter made its way across the ocean in the 16,17 & 1800’s.

[@Kirt-Davis]

Thank you for the video! Yes, penmanship is gone by the way side. You should see some of what I need to decipher at work. Oh, several have admitted they have no clue how to address an envelope or write out a personal check ("what's that?").

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It has indeed Kirt heck, even most people’s printing is not legible.

[@ethancox2992]

Another great video and wee bit of history. I trully miss writing letters and waiting to get one back it seems noone does that anymore

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You and me both,Ethan when it comes to receiving letters. I must admit, I too have become pretty complacent in the other part of the equation, writing a letter.

[@jackcook8613]

I bet that French coffee was good. I like a good rich cup of joe!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It was indeed, Joe. Nothing beats a fine cup of Java!

[@lowellanderson6532]

Thank you for another relaxing and informative video. What could make a better day than a good cup of coffee and a hand-written letter from a friend?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Exactly my feelings, Lowell, pretty darn hard to beat that combination.

[@bobboyer9440]

When wilderness camping I always brought along tea. It was much lighter to carry and worked just fine to warm up the body. I have watched several episodes where you roast your beans, grind them up. It would take pounds of coffee beans to last a week in the wild.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I agree and do take tea … simple and fast. However, I do like to treat myself self and will gladly accept the extra weight of coffee.

[@1mataleo1]

You should order a type of Japanese tea called “Hojicha”. It is often recommended to people who are trying to switch from Coffee to Tea. It is a heavily roasted tea, so it contains a lot of the richness and full flavor that coffee drinkers appreciate. Also, It is very easy to produce, so even the highest quality Hojicha is quite inexpensive, which is always a good. Unlike typical English breakfast tea, Hojicha is impossible to overbrew or turn bitter, even when steeped for a long time in boiling water. I think you would enjoy it

[@cliffordbass3608]

great video as always

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks, Clifford.

[@kingrafa3938]

Coffee on the table right now ☕

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You and me both.

[@wab1954]

A video about this building would be great. I assume this was the first "structure" built there. A video would be great.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

The reproduction of the Longhunter shelter was built prior to us launching The Woodland Escape. I might be building another in the future and will certainly film the process.

[@TibbyTibbles]

In some parts of England, tea is also synonymous with dinner/evening meal. I imagine one reason why Britain preferred tea was easier access than coffee due to the empire, or that it simply tastes better ;)

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You’ve a tough row to hoe convincing me that tea is better than coffee but, i do enjoy the odd cup of tea.

[@martinmeltzer2696]

Hey Peter! There is absolutely nothing like a hot drink to warm you up on a Winter's morning... Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Coffee! I would have thought that the Spanish in (relatively) near South America... not to mention their Colonies in early North America, would have had a large influence as well. Wasn't there a time in London where "Coffee Houses" that served Hot Chocolate as well as coffee, were all the rage in the English business community? I suspect that English investment in India played a large part in Tea being the English beverage of choice.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

To be honest, I never thought of the India connection but, that makes a lot of sense.

[@larrylee4919]

I have often wonder about the pots with a bottom spout and pots with the spout at the top. If I’m making campfire coffee I want the spout at the top.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Never pondered it that much but, if came down to not having coffee due to a spout preference, I’d take either, lol.

[@OverOnTheWildSide]

I’ve been drinking both lately. I keep a pot of tea on the wood stove and make a cup of coffee as desired. End of story- I’m taking in too much caffeine.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Some might argue that too much caffeine is impossible. Personally, if I drink it after 3 pm it a poor nights sleep for me.

[@OverOnTheWildSide]

@@TheWoodlandEscape yeah some days I can’t drink enough of it! Yeah I gotta stop by 4:00 or so myself.

[@wab1954]

What do you call this building in this video? And why the rocks and tree rounds placed as such?

[@c.johnstonblacksmith]

Nothing like a cup Of black coffee to get me ready to hit it hard! Great video as usual guys.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I’m with you on that Chris but, I suspect you hit that metal a wee bit harder than I.

[@МоскваБадИерусалимский]

👍👍👍

[@dowdawg]

Started buying my green coffee beans from sweet Maria’s off the net. Wow, quality seems much better than from others I purchased from…. And yes I still get excited over mail. 😃

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I have a source for green beans from a local coffee house. Your probably excited about the mail, Daniel, because your waiting on those fine beans.

[@dowdawg]

@@TheWoodlandEscape 😂

[@johnclarke6647]

You ought to read Washington’s book on being a gentleman. It has a lot of parables in it.

[@SveninColorado]

Being a furniture draftsman / designer my whole adult life, I print; and my printing is highly legible. However, I have lost the ability to write in cursive....sadly. Interesting bit of video at the last....The young fork-horn is missing one half of his rack. It seems way too early for him to be shedding antlers. Is this normal? I so look forward to your posts. They are refreshing and informative; instilled with a gentle sense of wonder and joy.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Like you Stephen, my cursive has also suffered over the years and also like you I studied drafting, mechanical that is. End of January is pretty normal in our parts for antler shedding. Funny, that deer in the video kept going around in circles, almost like it was heavy on one side, lol.

[@oldschoolboyscout]

That was some good insight to tea drinking. I only drink tea. Have you been able to keep that friendship with the ches player going?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Well I’ve a passion for coffee but, I do enjoy the odd spot of tea. On the friend, sadly no. I remember his first name was Charlie and went by Chuck. That was 54 years ago ,Douglas … kinda dating myself, lol.

[@thatsthewayitgoes9]

Like it that your knife , long gun flintlock and often hatchet / axe. Since visiting you & listening to you, expanded my studying. Oh my gosh, the early days were fraught with danger as well as need to take game for sustenance. Our daughter does the Ancestry thing. On mother’s side, VERY early immigrates. Tories in New York, Canada after the Revolution. Was murdered by a ne'er-do-well itinerant from Italy (of all places) after moving to Canada. He either owned a mill or was at the village mill and the guy stabbed him. Must not have been prepared. The dangers came from many things in those days. Native peoples occasionally warred on settlers.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Fascinating family history, thanks for sharing.

[@thatsthewayitgoes9]

Family name was Montgomery. The Sons sought justice court. Didn’t know they had courts in Canada in 18th century. They prevailed. Eventually moving back to Wisconsin to Merrill, in lumber industry

[@thatsthewayitgoes9]

@@TheWoodlandEscape would’ve like my ancestors to have rebellious patriots in the war. But the Montgomery’s were loyalists. I believe the were land owners in Canada & possibly owned the mill

[@Flintlock85]

Hi! Nice video!! By chance...what do you have, (if anything), on the soles of your winter mocs. to keep from slipping and sliding all over the place? Mine look just like yours, and I have a heck of a time with them in the snow. I can strap on my period ice creepers, but don't want to spend all day walking around camp with those on. Have also tied pieces of hemp rope around the bottoms in an attempt to get better traction...with so so results. Thank you!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

So, so about sums it up . I too use rope tied around the mid sole. Often I’m on snowshoes so it a non issue. I have used historically correct ice creepers but,they hurt like hell. I suspect they were used on European hard soled foot ware.

[@Flintlock85]

@@TheWoodlandEscape Thanks for the info.! Glad to know I'm in good company!!

[@rebanelson607]

Beautiful video! Patience, waiting for something - It makes me wonder what it was like back then to be neurodivergent (e.g. ADHD or autism spectrum disorder). You were not bombarded with instant gratification so you had to focus your attention on what existed in the immediate world.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I do believe that people in that time era had no problem focusing on a project as it literally meant life or death.

[@rogerclyde2720]

Once again very informative especially the letter from your friends the way it may have been written long ago. Just one observation and if I get chided for being a wee bit political I’ll take my my bread and water with a cheerful heart. On the matter of cursive writing being removed from education in both our Countries is quite ominous in desired affect! Legal Documents written during the period you portray as you know are written in cursive, case in point the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. So if you can’t write cursive it becomes much more difficult to read documents in cursive making it harder to know your rights and freedoms. I consider this to be a shot at the water line of Freedom.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Indeed Roger. A friend of ours wrote a small note to her granddaughter on a birthday card and the the young lady didn’t have a clue what she wrote.

[@SharonAnnMenefee]

Down here in Indiana. We teach cursive in our elementary schools.

[@rogerclyde2720]

@@SharonAnnMenefee As it should be, I was started on cursive in the Third Grade in California before the Socialist Left took over. I believe it was Georgia that sued to have its Schools removed from the Federal Unified School District System and Won.

[@beckyeversole3121]

Could you do a show on roasting coffee beans?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I have demonstrated it a few of our older episodes but, I’m sure I’ll be doing it again … thanks for your question and your interest.

[@alpetterson9452]

I'm English and what I know about us is that we probably only pretended not to enjoy coffee because we couldn't get it at the time. When we WERE able to get it we kad what's called Coffee Shops where it was consumed massively.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Indeed, Al, which ties into the fable of the fox and the grapes.

[@dragoua5544]

It is great to have a nice cup of coffee. Did you do your ink yourself? If not, you definetely should try it if you have some oaks in your are. And it is an easy project too, mostly consists of time

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You can’t beat a good cup of coffee and a fire to go with it. I have not tried ink but, you’ve tweaked my interest, I’ll have to research it.

[@ashleyanderson2859]

Appreciate your efforts and dedication! Patience and anticipation, very good subjects indeed. Curious about how coffee was shipped in the period? I believe coffee of today is shipped in bags, but was wondering if it differed in the period. Thanks again and keep your powder dry!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Good question Ashley and one off the top of my head I don’t know. Tea was shipped in boxes that held I believe 330 pounds of loose leaves. My guess would be wooden barrels.

[@davidprocter3578]

The Brits had easy access to the coffee growing regions way back and coffee shops were as popular as tea houses, often the meeting places of the artistic and political communities. There is no doubt no end of information on the history of coffee in Britain on utube and wiki.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Well thank you for the information. I must do a wee bit more research. I refer primarily to the scarcity of coffee beans in the Colonies. Perhaps the Brits were reluctant to ship it to the Americas .

[@erinobrien3506]

@@TheWoodlandEscape Max Miller on Tasting History did an episode on British coffee houses. kzbin.info/www/bejne/g3-so4OVltaqh7s

[@davidprocter3578]

@@TheWoodlandEscape You might have something there I could not comment, but it does occur most likely to be commercial rather than political, unless of course coffee beans were subject to a higher taxation rate than tea leaf.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Well that increase tax didn’t go over so well in a little place called Boston as I recall,lol. You have planted the seed for more research and for that I thank you.

[@glenmacneill6935]

Are you sure that wasn't a rum toddy ... in that silver cup ...

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Darn, my secret is out,lol.

[@kevinharding2099]

I noticed that your shoes look a bit wet. I know you used some birch bark inside, but do you oil the leather to keep them somewhat waterproof? I’d also like to know how to keep from slipping when the bottoms of your shoes are so smooth. Keep up the good work.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I used rendered down bear fat. It makes them somewhat water resistant but, nothing I’ve found make them waterproof. To be historically accurate, I use hemp rope wrapped around the middle if it really icy. Not perfect but, one gets used to walking a bit different in moccasins in icy conditions.

[@josephburge168]

Tea is ok but there’s nothing like a pot of coffee in the morning afternoon or night. 😂😂

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I’m with you all the way … a good cup of java to start the day!

[@keliplourde5601]

♥

[@SirFrederick]

I'm part French but I'd take tea over coffee

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I don’t have much of a taste for tea. Funny, as a child I used to like my Grandmothers tea, don’t what she did that was different.

[@wab1954]

Ive always wondered... People back them had a flintlock rifle about 50 cal. You couldnt shoot a squirrel or rabbit, etc with that rifle. There was also small calibre rifles that would be used for small animal hunting. When on a "Trek" what did they do for this problem? Did they carry two rifles with them?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

From my research the most common musket on the frontier was a smoothbore and almost always a .62 caliber. This allowed them to harvest big game with a patched or sometimes unpatched round ball and use shot, usually home made known as swan shot for small game. I have both a 45 and a 54 caliber rifled flintlock but, almost always tote my smoothbore.

[@wab1954]

@@TheWoodlandEscape I am not familiar with black powder arms. Can you shoot a shot load in a rifled rifle or smooth bore only?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Smoothbore only.

[@tomf3969]

Did our forefathers keep their firearms "at the ready", or did they charge them as needed?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

From my research they were almost always at the ready. In their cabins they left a charge in the barrel and the flash pan empty, with the powder horn hanging beside it.

[@krockpotbroccoli65]

Unless its a military musket and your exceptionally well drilled and fast with loading from paper cartridges, your keeping that thing charged with an unprimed pan.

[@marcusaetius9309]

They had to give them up because the government considered them a threat to society….oh, no wait, that’s what we have now. 😑

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Turbulent times on the frontier had most settlers keeping a powder charge and ball in the barrel. They left the flash pan empty so a fresh prime could quickly be added to ensure fast reliable ignition.

[@Littlestofthings52]

Maybe you can tell me something. Why did the people from back then make their houses out of wood and not stone if they had stone handy?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Many did Brenda and you hit the nail on the head … if the stone was available. In the area I live many of the Loyalists forced out of the Colonies made their homes from limestone. Places like Kingston, Brockville etc.

[@Littlestofthings52]

@@TheWoodlandEscape oh ok! I have always wondered about that. Thank you

[@mikesherman4565]

Would like a hand made shark jaw dream catcher let me know were to send it

[@mikesherman4565]

O I make them again would like one

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I must respectfully decline your most generous offer, Mike. I certainly mean no disrespect but, my Cathy and I find it quite awkward excepting gifts. We do appreciate your interest and support.

[@Ilikeit616]

Howdy Peter Do you roast your coffee beans offend ? Love a good cup of coffee , look forward to it . Ever try Vietnamese coffee ? what a kick .... can start your truck ! Penmanship .... I was taught it long time ago in school ... Still have very good Penmanship ...... Like the stories .... never heard of the fox and the grape . Heard of " sour grapes " . Don't stop telling stories .

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I love roasting them real dark over the fire and it adds a wee bit of smoke to the flavor. I put the beans in a leather pouch and grind them by beating the bag with my poll hatchet. I must try that there Vietnamese coffee … if it’s strong enough to start a truck it will be strong enough for me. Thanks for the tip.

[@deannalively4778]

Yeah, society is dumbing down

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I certainly won’t argue with your statement, Deanna. I find it rather scary.

[@deannalively4778]

@@TheWoodlandEscape me too

[@timmynormand8082]

Never did care for the English to this day Oh. Mr Kelly who won the chess game ?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Played two games and lost them both. That’s when I got serious and really started to study chess. We fell out of touch, so no opportunity to redeem myself.

[@heru-deshet359]

It's sad that although if I write in cursive, many can't read it and I have to print instead. Society is going backwards, IMO.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Totally agree!

[@johnclarke6647]

I learned cursive in elementary school. They only teach kids enough to be able to fill out their food stamp and welfare applications. In my day teachers taught to the level of the brightest kids in the class and not the dumbest. As you have probably noted I write in the Kings English? I learned it from a little blue book, titled Harbrace’s English grammar, as I remember.

[@kendavis511]

KEEP ME ON YOUR LIST HOWDY ROCKY MTS.

[@kendavis511]

ABLE TO TRADE FOR BAMBOO LARGE, USED TO CARRY B-POWDER, COFFEE, TEA, CHOCKLET, ROUND BALLS ETC. KEN ROCKY MTS.

[@DonWarfield]

My wife was an English teacher for 40 years. In the latter years her students would whine if she wrote something on the board in cursive. And if she showed a video clip they'd complain if it was in black & white, they said it hurt their eyes. They were good at complaining (and probably still are) Granted they are being taught new skills these days, but there are some skills that need to be retained -like producing durable communications without the use of anything more than a pen or pencil. It's getting so that i can leave my car unlocked these days as most Americans under 40 don't know how to drive a manual transmission. Too many skills are becoming ephemeral. What's next?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It is rather sad to see the lose of even the most basic of skills … I guess that is why we do this. Appreciate you watching.

[@missleeny5042]

Hi . I enjoy your videos so much and am learning an incredible amount frim them . Im another history nut and i wonder if you have an email address/means for me to send a photo . Years ago , while huking in the Hudson highlands , i found a very old firestarter , much like yours at the foundation of an old cabin . I'd like to hear any thoughts you might have . Have you done a video on firestarting yet ? I have to go look . Thanks so much for your inspiring work , i watch it for hours . R Lee , Newburgh NY

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We’ll Miss Lee, our email is [e-mail] and I’d love to see your find.