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Jim "Dutch" Boynton was approached in early 1992 about forming his own group of "Mountain Men" re-enactors, but he really wanted to have something bit more active and reach
out to the public a bit more.
Having been a Scoutmaster for 22 years, he enjoyed working with young people and missed the contact. He had been reading a bit of history that seemed to speak to him. Dutch contacted two other friends in his Mt. man group
to see if they might be interested in portraying Oregon Trail history.
Several invites to an informal meeting, held in September of 1992, revealed interest in forming a group. A name, some "rules", and an election were taken care of on that first
meeting. Little did they know just how far the group would go and what faced them down the 'trail' !
Dutch has carried the title of "WagonMaster" since the group formed in 1992. He spends a lot of time making phone calls, writing letters and
contacting towns, people and events that have an interest in Oregon Trail history. He has put a lot of time into something he enjoys and is proud of all that the members have accomplished.
As a portraying member, Dutch is the Woodwright. He has built
the furniture you see in his lodge, as well as pieces for other members. He enjoys working with his hands and telling people about the Oregon Trail history.
On the personal side, he has three sons and seven grandchildren. Jim is a buyer at the
Hanford Area and has lived with his wife Janet in Pasco, Washington for over 35 years. |
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