While the First Saturday of November was too chilly for a Sell & swap turnout, (43 F) it was just right for the first annual ENSOR MUSEUM FALL CAMPOUT. Throughout the day, hams showed up in cars, trucks and a motor home to enjoy the decent fall weather, pitching of shelters, and preparation of cooked out dinner and breakfast. Most also set up portable radio operations.
Over 35 signed the register to prove their seriousness to any who might question. There was a variety of ways used to secure from unexpected weather and all were successful. Don Warkentein, WØDEW, was the leader of the idea and execution of its ingredients. This is an open event to all hams and the Johnson County Radio Amateur Club was most evident in number.
Don found a tree stump that made a good location for the campfire and the Museum provided the cut firewood. Don’s son Dale, KBØZGV ably took over the fireman duty and it was enjoyed by all present for the duration, providing radiant heat and cooking flame alike. Dons request that everyone just bring a little something for the dinner was met with an over abundant food fare fit for a king and queen.
Bob, KCØGNR hosted a terrific smoker and it did at least 4 dead chickens and a couple dozen hamburgers and more. Even tho there was no competition for most effective or unusual tents or shelter if you like, to this viewer, it seemed competitive. Most likely it was just pride of accomplishment.
While WØDEW’s tent was very homey and sported a fine set up of radio gear (not including the 80 ft tower that appeared to be his personal antenna in a photo), Van, KØHCV really had a great set up composed of a two legged center supported double lean to open on all sides as a shelter from downward flowing weather elements. At the North end was a nice vertical antenna combining HF and VHF.
Opposite this arrangement was space for both his shelled pickup with bed and storage and the car of Bill and Carol ABØRG & KCØMRT.
But the peoples choice seemed to be the pretty little multi colored tent of Susan, KCØHHN, and Wretha, KCØHHO. Not only did they have comfort, and an antenna mast, they had a flower garden at the edge. (and it didn’t hurt that they brought lots of food plus cakes and cookies). All had a really great time and many requests were made for this to be an annual event.
The Museum is happy to see this kind of event bring lots of people out to use the ample country space and make use of the historically rich facility. It is perfect for use by hams and others for this and many other sorts of use. For a place on the 2004 activities calendar, get in contact with Larry, WØHXS. Please note elsewhere on this site, the change of operating dates.
Campout Pictures