Overview
Unlike the majority of authors who had written on the subject, Post was not only a former military man, he had also made a record-breaking equestrian trip through the rugged Andes mountains of South America. Originally published in 1914, “Horse Packing” was an instant success, incorporating as it did not only the very essence of the science of packing horses and mules, but giving Post’s own valuable insights into what had personally worked for him out on the trail. The book is amply illustrated with a multitude of drawings showing how to secure loads, tie an assortment of various rope hitches, and even choose the proper pack animal. This rediscovered classic remains fascinating reading for students of the horse or history.Synopsis
Horse packing—using horses (and sometimes mules) as a form of conveyance for supplies and goods—was once a cornerstone of human transportation. Filled with precisely drawn illustrations and written instructions on the many types of required hitches, cordage, ropes, splices, and knots, this practical guide expertly covers all aspects of a formerly commonplace skill. It includes fine explanations of general packing rules and background on pack organization; records of endurance; the diseases that can strike pack animals and how to avoid them; cargo slinging; and much more. For anyone interested in the storied history of pack transportation, or for those who still travel with pack animals and want to do so safely and efficiently, this unique volume is a necessity.