Day 6 Is Complete

Covered 14 Miles Today.

After leaving Rose Hill I was joined by Isaac Kremer of Discover Downtown Middlesboro.  We chatted as he walked with me to Martin Station.  He took some great photos along the way and Kimberly will try to share them on my facebook page tonight.

Seven miles later I arrived at Martin Station. Billy Heck greeted me dressed in period appropriate clothing and in the character of Colonel Martin, who founded the Station in the 1775.  It was a stopping point in the wilderness for pioneers and he would provide them with lodging and needed supplies.

While in character he gave me a tour of the station and took me to the forge where he fashioned a nail as they would have in the 1770’s.  (I’m proudly carrying that nail in my backpack for the reminder of the hike.  Tonight it was used to hang an official 1777 U.S. flag over our campsite;  the first official flag of the new world. Each evening I will use it to do the same.)

Also waiting for me was Givan Fox (read about him by clicking here), my hiking partner for the remainder of the trip, and his father, Dr. John Fox.  John is the man that has been studying this route for the past six years and has more knowledge about Boone Trace than anyone alive today.

Kelsey Gerheart , a reporter from Middlesboro Daily News and her friend Deidre joined us as we left the station and headed out for another 7 miles.

Kelsey, Givan and Curt

Photo Credit: Kelsey Gearheart

We completed our day by arriving at Cumberland Gap National Park.  The woman I introduced you to last night, Pam Eddy, and another park ranger by the name of Marcus were already there.  They were preparing a pioneer style meal for us, over a campfire, while wearing period attire.

John Fox had driven around to be with us again, along with Hannah Duncan.  Hannah happened to be hiking part of Boone Trace last October when she came upon John, who had suffered a cardiac episode, and was on the ground.  John now refers to her as his trail angel.

The weather was more enjoyable today.  Blue skies and sun.  I was able to use my solar charger to refresh some batteries.

Kelsey is camping out with Givan and me tonight on the east side of the gap.  We will be crossing over in the morning.

Walk on,

Curtis