Believe it or not, the history of America is a history of trapping. Early American explorers trapped as they explored—and sometimes traded for furs with Native Americans. Trips up rivers and around uninhabited lakes, plus treks across mountains and up valleys, were often undertaken to discover more animals, more locations to set traps, and to increase the places to collect more furs. Furs were considered early currency in some regions. Furs from America were often shipped to other countries, including England.
Trapping also provided another much needed early American resource—food. Yes, raccoons, bears, beavers and other animals collected by a trap often ended up on the family dining table. Life in the New World was often precarious and trapping helped fill an important need for food.
Trapping also helped change America’s landscape. Many major cities in America today began as fur trading outposts as the “new land” was being explored. If you are in America today, this is possible because of trapping during yesteryear.
Trapping, and the resulting skins and fur, also became important items of clothing. Beaver blankets and hats are legendary. Coonskin caps are also nearly an icon of early America.
For more information about trapping, visit your state department of natural resources website. Many states also have trappers’ associations and many of these groups hold annual conferences with seminars on how to trap effectively. Also, download this PDF for a great overview of trapping.