Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
This black and white photograph was taken in 1908 outside the W.C. Dresser House. The successful hunting party included from left to right: B.W. Rantz, W.C. Dresser, E.R. Adams and Dr. McLachlan.
At right, a dark morph variant of a snow goose on display at the Eddy County Museum, Prepared by John Aarstad, donated from the McHenry Museum in 1999.
Hunting is a big deal around these parts, and it seems to have been that way for a long time. When it comes to related artifacts found in the museum, the sport of bird hunting dominates.
There are many more photos like the one above dating around 1910. It was a time when there were few rules and regulations regarding wildlife. The sky really was the limit!
Upon close inspection of the above photo, it is clear these gentlemen harvested a variety of birds ranging from Canada geese, several species of duck, and snow geese.
For the people of Eddy County at this time must have had a good recipe or two for roast duck or goose. I've even heard an elder or two from the area recall duck soup.
Feathers also had an important role. While feathers were quite fashionable, especially in ladies hats, they also serve a functional purpose in the lining of outerwear and bedding.
It seems quite serendipitous, don't you think? Just before the winter took hold, a viable source of food and insulating material would fly through the sky.
