A Dutch Oven Cook-off at Tyler State Park

Teardrop Trail Log: March 23, 2018

No campout would be complete without some outdoor cooking, and we had an extra incentive to make our food memorable on the trip to Tyler State Park — A Dutch Oven Cook-off! I’ve used cast iron since I was a child, and although cookware innovations come and go, an old cast iron skillet or pot never fails. I used to host potluck parties for my staff at the University and there were always bean dishes, cobbler and other goodies cooked in cast iron. Likewise, Marilyn is an old-hand when it comes to cast iron and camp food, having been a trail chef at a dude ranch and learned at the knee of her father, who made some of the best cast iron beans ever. We felt like we could mount a respectable effort in the cook-off.

New cast iron toys

After much consideration, we settled on a Mac and Cheese topped with Pork Chops dish figuring nothing succeeds like “over-the-top” excess. Marilyn prepped carefully, pre-measuring the ingredients at home so cooking in camp would be as easy and foolproof as possible. I prepped our best 12-inch Lodge dutch oven and laid in a stock of charcoal. I bought a few toys as well from a Camp Maid grill and smoker set and dutch oven carry bag to a simple steel feed pan to stoke the charcoal. Nothing left to chance.

The cook-off was on Friday. Preparations were underway throughout the park with dozens of entries from the members of the Southwest Teardrop and Vintage Trailer Association members. Marilyn had cooked the macaroni a little earlier in the afternoon, and all was in readiness. I started the charcoal at about 4 PM knowing that the food had to be delivered to the potluck no later than 6 PM to be eligible. Precision timing was of the essence.

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This photo sequence shows the process from start to finish — delivered to the hungry crowd at 6 PM on the dot. Let’s just say that no one went away hungry!

Southwest Teardrop and Vintage Trailer Cast Iron Cook-off

Our Inks Lake Getaway

Teardrop Trail Log: August 4, 2017

We met the folks from Southwest Teardrops and Vintage Trailer group at Krause Springs in May of 2016 and attended one of their gatherings at Lake Bob Sandlin last September. I had signed us up for another gathering with the group at Inks Lake State Park beginning August 3. Sadly, we had broken a leaf spring on our trailer on our last trip so we were a day late arriving due to the search for replacements for a broken leaf spring.

Welcome to Inks Lake!

Inks Lake State Park is considered one of the gems of the Texas Hill Country, near Austin. About 8,000 years ago, prehistoric peoples lived and worked along the banks of the Colorado River. The Apache and Comanche later ranged through the Hill Country. After Texas became a state, German and other Anglo settlers farmed and raised livestock here. The area was used for cattle ranching since the mid-1800s and it remained a part of various ranches until the state acquired the land. Culverts and roads in the park were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps stationed at Longhorn Caverns in the 1930s.

Our Neighbors

The 1,201-acre State Park was created from privately owned and Lower Colorado River Authority land in 1940, and is located next to Inks Lake on the Colorado River in Burnet County. Inks Lake is named for Roy B. Inks, one of the original board members of the Lower Colorado River Authority. It is the 2nd lake in the seven Highland Lakes chain. The water level of Inks Lake is usually unaffected by drought and is maintained at a normal level most of the time. The park opened to the public in 1950.

The Gang at Devil’s Watering Hole

The entrance is off Park Road 4 and after checking in we saw Roger, one of the members of our group. Armed with the park map, we found our campsite on a lovely inlet and proceeded to establish camp. Members of our group were scattered about the campground. Our routine is to walk through the campground visiting with friends and stopping to check out other folks’ rigs, a great way of making new friends.

SWTVT Potluck

One of the unique aspects of the park is Devil’s Watering Hole, one of the favorite swimming holes in the Texas Hill Country. It is an inlet off of Ink’s Lake, bordered by rock outcroppings. We watched as members of our group paddled, swam and even jumped from the cliff. Later that evening, we joined the traditional pot luck dinner, where everyone tries to outdo each other in quantity and variety of food.

Another Fine Day

Leaf Spring Repairs

Teardrop Trail Log: June 21 and early August, 2017

Fender nearly touching the tire

Stopping in Cleburne, Texas for gas, I noticed that the left trailer fender was dragging on the tire. Not good. It didn’t look like any real damage had been done to the tire, but I needed to separate them before it got any worse. Perhaps someone had backed into our trailer and bent the fender. That’s when I saw that one side of the trailer was lower than the other. Ahh — broken spring. The Ambassador was equipped with 500-pound springs on each side, but one had clearly broken. We had probably exceeded the rated weight. Sizing up the situation, I thought we could get home — only about 200 miles — but first I had to bend the fender away from the tire. Fortunately, I was able to borrow a pry bar, and bend it just enough. We got home safely later that afternoon.

The old, 500-pound springs

We had a trip to Inks Lake scheduled for early August, but I figured I had plenty of time. Late July was cutting it close, so I got online and learned that the spring was a standard model, ordered one from the local parts house, and expected to have it in a couple of days. Except when I went to pick it up on the appointed day, they didn’t have it. Somehow they had spaced the order. Now we were really short on time.

Marilyn and I spent most of that day visiting every parts house we could find in Dripping Springs, Southwest Austin and finally along I-35 towards San Antonio. Between Austin and San Antonio, there are several RV dealers and although they all agreed it was a standard (and therefore common) leaf spring, none of them stocked it. Finally, one of them recommended Magnum Trailers in San Marcos and we finally had a pair. It was going to make us a day late, but we would be able to meet our friends at Inks Lake.

New shackle bolts and springs

The installation was pretty simple. Leaf springs should always be replaced in pairs, and so should the shackle bolts that attach them to the trailer. The drill-powered scissors jack made it easy to jack up the trailer and the replacement didn’t take long. I even checked the wheel bearings and repacked them with grease. I think the whole operation took about 2 hours.

Powered scissors jack

All things considered, it could have been much worse. We were close to home when the spring broke, and we made it home with no incident. The replacement springs, once found, were very inexpensive. And, it wasn’t hard to swap them out. All repairs should be this easy!

On the Tasty Trail — Lunch at the Tin Kitchen

Teardrop Trail Log: June 20, 2017

The charming town of Weston, Missouri was settled in 1837. The success of the town was based on the exporting of large quantities of tobacco and hemp grown in the region. It was also the town that equipped Lewis and Clark as well as wagon train masters and other adventurers for their trips west. During this time, Weston had grown to be the second-largest river port in the state.

I compiled a list of attractions after Sara Tucker of Cool Tears Magazine had suggested Weston as a stop on the Teardrop Trail. Main Street climbs upward from what had once been the riverbed filled with steamboats. It is lined with quaint, old buildings that exude the charm of a bygone era, many on the National Register of Historic Places. We found a parking spot that would accommodate both the Lady and the Ambassador and began our walking tour of this pre-Civil War town. We passed the Weston Historical Museum, the National Silk Art Museum, Victorian homes, antique shops and more.

The Tin Kitchen

Weston’s rich history includes eating well. We always enjoy new dining adventures when we travel on the Tasty Trail. As we strolled down Main Street, we spotted the Tin Kitchen, Southern Smoke House, that occupies the old Rumpel Hardware building. Built in 1842, the building has been lovingly restored to preserve all of its wonderful charm. We were enchanted by the dining rooms that feature the original pressed-tin ceilings, wainscoting, dark wood tables and bars. We slid into one of the comfy booths that line the walls.

Tin Kitchen Logo

I ordered the Friday special, a grilled salmon salad with a yummy Balsamic Vinaigrette and Jim enjoyed The Cheeseburger and 24HR Slaw. After our wonderful lunch, we explored the TK2 – The Public House at Tin Kitchen, offering craft beers on tap along with a full bar featuring a great selection of wine, spirits, and craft-cocktails set in the same lovingly restored interior.

We had developed a fondness for the Show-me state and hope to visit again soon.

On to Edmond, our next stop!

The Cheeseburger and 24HR Slaw

On to Weston Bend State Park

Teardrop Trail Log: June 19, 2017

As we departed Pella, our route took us along Lake Red Rock toward Knoxville, Iowa. The railroads and coal mining had provided growth during the 19th century. My grandmother had been a teacher in a rural one-room school in Marion County near Knoxville. It was so long ago since I had visited her that I only had a few memories from her recollections of her time in rural Iowa.

Lewis and Clark Expedition Map

Our destination was Weston Bend State Park on the bluffs of the Missouri River. Sarah Tucker, the editor of Cool Tears magazine had recommended the Weston area for its scenic beauty overlooking the Missouri River. The river and the region’s rich soil attracted many Native American tribes including the Iowa, Kansa and Fox. On their expedition to explore the West, Lewis and Clark reached the Weston area in 1804. Their journals detail a Kansa village on the river. Upon their return visit two years later, they described the many fur traders traveling up the river.

The tobacco industry had flourished in the area in the mid-19th century and five tobacco barns are located within the park. The McCormick Distillery that began operations in 1858 east of Weston claims to be the oldest continuously operating distillery in the country.

Camp Weston Bend

Weston Bend is little gem of a park, on 1,133 acres with only 37 campsites. We found the campground host and checked in. I have always liked meeting the hosts at each of the campgrounds and have fanaticized about trying the host’s role in the future.

As in many of our camping experiences, we met the neighbors, Steve and Chris Hutoron of Phoenix from the site next door and enjoyed several conversations. As we hiked on one of the many trails, we met other hikers Tony & Maggie with Yadi and Chenielle and their friendly dogs. The highlight of the hike was when we caught a glimpse of the Missouri River at the scenic overlook where Lewis & Clark had seen it.

The next morning, we would set out to explore the historic village of Weston, Missouri.

Historic Missouri River Overlook

Back in Time – Visiting the Pella Historical Village

Teardrop log: June 19, 2017

Located just across the street from the Royal Amsterdam Hotelon the Molengracht Plaza where we have been staying, is the Pella Historical Village. It offers a look at how early Pella pioneers lived after they left Holland in the 1840’s.

On the grounds, we found the Sod House, a replica of the housing during Pella’s early years. We learned how wooden shoes were made at the Werkplaats. Among the buildings, is the boyhood home of Wyatt Earp, one of the most famous or infamous characters of the Old West, still standing in the historical village.

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Doug Heerema, our tour guide took us through the enchanting Miniature Dutch Village. It was begun by George Heernan in 1938, as a work study project for students in Pella’s schools and Central College, as part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Many of the original structures were created at 1/24 scale and restored in 1978. New buildings have been added. The village is populated with dolls that reflect authentic daily life in a Dutch village. All four seasons are portrayed with a boy flying a kite, flower sellers, farmers gathering hay and ice skaters on frozen canals.

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Having been in the museum business, I always check out the gift shop when we visit a museum. This one was amazing! One source observed that it had every type of Dutch gift you could want from dishes to wooden shoes. I bought a bag of flour produced at the mill and a Pella cookbook to go with it.

We enjoyed exploring historic Pella. There was not enough time so see everything on the list. We will definitely put this magic place in the list for future trips on the Teardrop Trail!

Pella Cookbook and Windmill Flour

The Vermeer Mill — A Dutch Windmill Tour

Teardrop Trail Log: June 19, 2017

The star of Pella is the Vermeer Mill — it’s certainly the first thing you notice when you drive into town. Having arrived Saturday evening we were intrigued but could only admire it from the outside. It wasn’t open for tours until Monday morning.

In the Historic Village

One enters the windmill through the Pella Historical Village gift shop. The tours start at regular intervals for whoever is there. We were shown a short film and presentation by Doug Heerema, one of the mill guides. He then showed us another floor of the museum where an astonishing miniature village is located — but more on this in a later post. Riding an elevator to the fifth floor, we were introduced to Jim Brandl, the “molenaar” or miller for a tour of the Vermeer Mill.

The mill is connected to the museum by a wooden bridge, and on it, you find a panoramic view of Pella. Ahead is an enormous ship’s wheel — used to turn the mill structure to direct it into the wind. It was a clear, fine day with a light breeze, and the miller made a few adjustments. The massive cloth-covered sails began turning as we walked around the platform. Moveable barriers prevent absent-minded tourists from walking into the sails which swing by with impressive speed.

Inside, we found a profusion of massive wooden beams supporting the roof of the mill, which rises two more floors above. Equally massive wooden gears turn a large, wooden shaft which turns the mill stones at about eye level. Grain from a hopper is shaken into the center of the top stone and flour falls from a chute to a waiting bag below. A beautiful modern example of an 1850’s “koren molen” (grain mill) that still works today.

Built by the Verbij Hoogmade BV company in the Netherlands and re-assembled in Pella in 2002, the Vermeer Mill stands on a 40-foot-high brick base to reach a height of 124 feet at the tip of the tallest sail. Made of 16 different wood species from 6 countries, the mill supports two, five-foot in diameter, 3500-pound mill stones. 500 pounds of flour can be ground in one hour with a brisk wind. With woods like Purpleheart, Ironwood, Acidwood, Oak, Scots Elm, Teak, Lignumvitae and the exquisite joinery needed to build with them, this is a feast for anyone interested in fine woodworking.

The third floor is a small museum showing Dutch mill technology. Scale models show the mill’s inner workings, while a series of framed prints show the many variations of mill developed for specialized uses.

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The second floor is a recreation of the molenaar’s living arrangements. Compact but comfortable, it is the ultimate in thrift and short commute. This way, he was always nearby in case of bad weather to turn the mill cap into the wind. The “bed stede” or bed is interesting. The doors could be closed for warmth, but it was shorter than we’re used to, as people in the 1850’s believed it was unhealthy to sleep lying flat.

The Molenaar’s Home

Exploring Pella

Teardrop Trail Log: June 18, 2017

On Monday, after breakfast at the hotel, we strolled down Franklin Street and explored the Dutch heritage of the village. We started by walking around the Public Square Park, looking at all the shops, businesses, gardens and parks. There were many famed, significant buildings including the Scholte house, built by Pella’s founder in 1847, now a museum.

: Scholte House

: “The Gift” – Nick Klepinger

: A Hosta at Scholte Gardens

: “The Gardener” – Nick Klepinger

After exploring we were ready for lunch. The Windmill Café (709 Franklin) a bustling but friendly place just off Public Square Park.

: Village Wrap at Windmill Cafe

: Swiss Mushroom Burger

Smokey Row Coffee Shop

Jim goes in search of his customary mocha every afternoon and today was no exception. As we proceeded up Franklin street, we found the Smokey Row Coffee Shop. A Mocha success! We passed the Klokkenspel.

The Klokkenspel

This carillon was created for Pella with 147 bell chimes and eight animated, mechanical characters from Pella’s history that perform daily. It is one of a handful animated musical clocks in the United States, and can be viewed from both Franklin Street and on the courtyard side.

That evening we dined at George’s Pizza and Steak House, located in an historic building just across from the Klokkenspel. A tasty way to end the day’s Pella adventure!

Klokkenspel Courtyard

Arriving in Pella

Teardrop Trail Log: June 17, 2017

We like to see the sights around the state where the Red Power Roundup takes place. In April as we were planning our trip to Iowa, I put out a request to members of a number of tear drop trailer pages on Facebook asking for suggestions of what we should see while visiting Iowa. I was amazed at the number of responses from the members of the Heartland Tearjerkers.

Love the trailer community. We were even invited to join a small trailer gathering at Rock Creek State Park, east of Des Moines. Suggestions ranged from the Bridges of Madison County to Pella, Iowa.

Vermeer Windmill and Historic Village

Most people know the town for the windows that are manufactured nearby and the annual tulip festival. Pella was founded by the Dutch who settled in the rich farmland of Iowa in 1874 and founded the quaint village. Persecuted for being dissenters from the state Reformed church, they named their new home Pella, taken from a biblical city of refuge.The village offers old world charm, awesome scenery, great shopping and excellent Dutch bakeries!

We arrived on Sunday June 17, and checked into the Royal Amsterdam Hotel located on The Molengracht, which means “mill canal,” built to replicate a Dutch-style canal in the historic downtown area. That evening, we had a wonderful dinner at Monarchs Restaurant in the hotel. I had a fabulous butternut squash ravioli and Jim had lasagna. We shared a delicious chocolate cake.

: Monarchs Lasagna

: Butternut Squash Ravioli

It was as good as it looke!

Meeting the Faithful — Signing Books at Red Power Roundup

Teardrop Trail Log: June 17, 2017

In my past, as the director of the Vail Valley Arts Council, I organized numerous meet-and-greet
book signings for visiting artists, photographers, scholars and collectors as part of various receptions, talks and events. I had enjoyed getting to know each author and providing an opportunity for members of the local community to meet these very special people and share a moment to connect as the author signs the book and includes a personalized dedication.

After the publication of Canning, Pickling and Freezing with Irma Harding, it was time for me to switch to the other side of the table. It was helpful that I had picked up some of the tricks from the masters. Armed with my favorite pen, I have enjoyed getting to know many of the people who have purchased the book. The Red Power Roundups have provided a special opportunity to engage and share fond memories with many of the faithful fans of Irma Harding.

This Red Power Roundup at the Iowa State Fairgrounds was no exception. I love chatting with the folks who stop by the table. A lovely woman, who was a farm wife shared that she was planning a couple of events for a national organization that learns about history and antiques as well as for her sorority meeting. She had found about Irma and even owned an International Harvester stove. We exchanged emails and I shared many of the sources I had used to find out about Irma. In December, she reported that both events were very successful and shared photos. It feels good to have helped share the Irma love.

Personalizing a book

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