The History of the Rendezvous

The fur trade in North America was based on pelts, primarily beaver, for the clothing and hat markets of Europe beginning in the late 1600s. The animals were trapped and exchanged for goods, and the pelts were transported to Europe for processing and final sale. As America grew, the fur trade became a big source of revenue for the trappers who supplied the furs, the traders who sold the supplies and equipment that the fur trappers needed, and the fur companies that sold the furs to the European markets. The Rocky Mountain Rendezvous was an annual gathering (1825–1840) at various locations held by a fur trading company at which trappers and mountain men sold their furs and hides and replenished their supplies. Rendezvous were known to be lively, joyous places, where all were allowed- trappers, Indians, and travelers. The annual events included dancing, target-shooting, storytelling, and competitions.

These rendezvous came to an end around 1840, due in large part to the depleted beaver population in the Rocky Mountains and the changing fashion industry.

At our Ranger Rendezvous youth and adults will compete on an individual basis in competitions that could have been part of the Rocky Mountain Rendezvous.

Staff members must be pre-approved by the Rendezvous committee prior to registering as staff. If interested in helping with this event, please contact Susan Sandstrom-Chair (727) 686-2972, sandstromsc@gmail.com

There will be no late registration and no walk-ins. All participants must be registered in advance of the registration deadline. Participants needing electricity for C-Pap machines or other medical devices must advise staff no later than one week prior to this event so that we can plan accordingly.