Tie Making & Crosscut Saws
Crosscut Saw and Log Hewing at Philmont Scout Ranch transports participants back to the rugged logging days of the early 20th century. Set against the historical backdrop of the Pueblano and Crater Lake logging camps, this hands-on program immerses Scouts in the skills and culture of pioneer loggers.
The Crosscut Saw Experience
At both camps, Scouts can ask to learn to operate a traditional crosscut saw—a two-person tool once essential for felling trees and cutting logs into manageable lengths. Guided by skilled staff, participants team up to pull the saw in rhythmic motions, cutting through large logs with teamwork and precision. This activity emphasizes coordination, communication, and the effort required to tackle the physically demanding work of early loggers.
Log Hewing: Crafting Timbers by Hand
Log hewing involves shaping logs into squared timbers using a broad axe, a critical skill for constructing log cabins and other structures. Scouts discover the art of turning raw logs into flat, usable beams, mimicking the process used by the Continental Tie & Lumber Co. loggers.
Historical Context
The activities are framed within the historical significance of Philmont’s logging industry. Staff members, in period costume, share stories of the Continental Tie & Lumber Company and the Cimarron & Northwestern Railway, which transported the hand-hewn ties and lumber. This storytelling provides participants with a deeper appreciation of the resilience and ingenuity of the loggers who once worked these forests.
Why It’s Memorable
Participating in crosscut sawing and log hewing offers a unique, hands-on connection to history while fostering teamwork and perseverance. The blend of physical effort, historical storytelling, and the rustic beauty of Philmont’s backcountry camps makes these activities unforgettable highlights of a trek.
Whether felling a log at Pueblano or shaping timbers at Crater Lake, Scouts leave with a sense of accomplishment, newfound respect for early pioneers, and plenty of stories to share around the campfire.
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