Winter Quarters Project, 2005

With a grateful thanks and tip of the forage cap to Welles Vaupel and his family, the 53rd PA has undertaken a winter quarters project to construct cabins on their property near Hamburg, Pennsylvania. Marc Benedict and John Lowry were the first complete their hutment, an elaborate yet cozy shed made from rough sawn wood and salvaged beams. Being the scrounger that he is, Pvt. Benedict secured a period iron stove and pipe for the chimney, a door from some farmer's chicken house, and even a window from the farmer's house! Construction has begun with workdays planned for additional quarters being built beside a beautiful mountain stream in a great setting. It's not quite "This Old House", but it'll do for winter drills and camp outs. More images to come soon! (click on each image for a larger view.)

An 1800's cast iron stove provides warmth on the colder nights.

Food stock for the winter.

Foundation in place for the other winter cabin, which will accommodate more of us.

All the comforts of home!