What is Rendezvous?
How can I get involved?
Rendezvous serves as a celebration that honors our history. From 1700 to 1840, the official Rendezvous were organized events held by fur companies to buy pelts from company men and free trappers who had trapped beavers and otters throughout the winter. When these individuals came together, their interactions went beyond mere financial transactions and exchanges of fur. These gatherings also offered chances for entertainment and games. In the present day, we organize a vibrant event each year to commemorate the activities that these historical figures engaged in.
Preparing for a primitive (or period correct) rendezvous for the first time might appear daunting, but here are valuable tips that can help you organize your camp for the Southwestern Regional Rendezvous.
- Coming to a public day is a great way to start! They allow people in non-period dress and without camps to visit and have a look around. This is a great way to talk to people and get a taste of the culture and receive advice from seasoned rendezvous-ers.
Public days are usually on the weekends surrounding the SWRR. Specific public days will be listed on each years flyer.
- Start simple! Start with what you have and gather things as you go. Rendezvous people love to help and answer any questions you may have! Starting with the basics is a great way to enter the hobby and discover the parts of rendezvous that most interest you.
Essentials:
Clothes:
The best place to buy clothing (new and used) is at rendezvous! There’s plenty of opportunities here to trade and find things you love. But to begin, here are some resources that will get you started.
Here are some great starter shirts for men and women! And here are more!
Here are some men’s pants! These would be appropriate for our time period.
Skirts for the ladies!
These are great high-quality Moccasins that will last you for years!
But also leather moccasin-type slippers will work for rendezvous beginners.
Most wear capotes which are coats made of wool blankets. Wrapping up in a period blanket is always appropriate and always warm!
Tents: There are many different styles of period correct tents. Sometimes there are used tents for sale at rendezvous, but here is a good resource for quality tents.
We always have spots for RVs and campers too! Camper parking is a short walk from camp to keep the Rendezvous primitive. If you have any questions please contact us!
Cooking and other equipment:
All non-period items should be covered with period materials or kept out of sight. A blanket or piece of cloth draped over an ice chest is perfectly acceptable.
There are even a few eateries if you don’t want to cook!
Camping can get cold! Come prepared to stay warm with wool blankets and sleeping bags. Some even bring propane heaters for inside their tents when the temperature drops.