Less Known Facts about Lumberjacks History

Iris | 07 - 07 - 2023
Hidden stories of lumberjacks throughout time

Wood harvesting was carried out using hand tools in the past. Nowadays, people are using high-end tools for faster harvest. Lumberjack was an unpopular, high-risk job that involved cutting heavy logs and transporting them. However, logging industries thrived by employing a few individuals who were experts in this job. Continue reading to learn more uncommon facts about lumberjacks.

Unexplored Facets of Lumberjack Heritage

Lumberjacks often lived a migratory life and they worked in lumber camps. Most lumberjacks continue the occupation of grandparents and parents. Uncovering obscure facts about lumberjacks’ past, it is surprising to learn that some of them practiced unique logging techniques to locate fallen trees deep within the dense forests.

Popularity 

In 1831, the term ‘lumberjack’ was first used in Canada. They also worked in the United States, Scandinavia, and even some parts of Africa. Lumberjacks are very popular in the US. It has been portrayed in the mass media, sports, and folklore. 

What is an unpopular job for a few people due to its heavy risks?
  • A. Timber cutter
  • B. Logger
  • C. Lumberjack
  • D. Maintenance worker

Traditional Culture 

Lumberjack hold on to their tradition and culture even if their payment is low. There are a lot of uncovered mysteries of lumberjack traditions. They celebrate the power, masculinity, and strength of a man. For a long time, lumberjacks work extremely hard from dawn to dusk and lived in shacks. 

Lifestyle of Lumberjack 

In most bush camps, strict rules are often governed. They were strictly forbidden to talk for a long-time during meals and alcohol was prohibited. This is another uncommon fact about lumberjacks. An enormous amount of food was served in the camps. In the work field, injury and death could occur at any time. The lifestyle of a lumberjack is independent and they take proud in their work. 

Logging Business 

Lumberjacks who work in the logging industry are involved in four main tasks such as felling, skidding, limbing, and hauling. Physical strength and masculinity are needed for lumberjacks as they perform the transportation of trees and initial harvesting. The word ‘loggers’ mean those who used hand tools to fell trees. 

Modern Technology 

This profession has undergone drastic changes after 1945 when machinery were introduced and simplified manual intervention. After the introduction of modern technology, the jobs of lumberjacks changed widely. Huge machines were designed to cut and chop up the trees. The chainsaws and harvesters are now employed for cutting and falling the trees. Also, women entered this profession for cutting timber and felling trees.

In addition to these, the other uncommon facts about lumberjacks include their independent lifestyles, residing in logging camps, and receiving low wages. Despite the challenging nature of their duties, compared to other professions, lumberjacks strive to work hard and provide timber for the construction of houses, furniture, and various other purposes.

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