The Cowboy Pit-fire
The cowboy pit-fire is simply a trench dug in the earth ([Fig. 107]), with a basin-shaped hole at the beginning. When obtainable, sticks are laid across the trench and sods laid upon the top of the sticks. [Fig. 107] shows a section of view of the pit-fire and trench chimney, and [Fig. 108] shows the top view of the same.
In removing the sod one should be careful not to break them, then even though there be no sticks one may be able to cover the draught chimney with the sods themselves by allowing them to bridge the trench. At the end of the trench the sods are built up, making a short smokestack.
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The Chinook Fire-pit
The chinook fire-pit is one which is used in the northwestern part of the United States, and seems to be a combination of the ordinary camp fire-dogs with cross logs and the cowboy fire-pit. [Fig. 109] shows a perspective view of this lay. [Fig. 110] shows the top view of plan of the lay. [Fig. 111] shows a steeper perspective view than that of [Fig. 109], and [Fig. 112] shows a sectional view. By examining the sectional view and also the deeper perspective view, as well as the plan, you will note that the two logs are placed across the fire-dogs with space between. The back-log is placed upon the top of another back-log A and B ([Fig. 112]). The fire-dogs have their ends shoved against the bottom back-logs B, the two back-logs are kept in place by the stakes C, C. Between the two top logs D and A ([Figs. 112] and [110]), the smaller fuel or split wood is placed.
As the fire burns the hot coals drop into the pit, and when sufficient quantity of embers are there they may be raked forward and the frying pan placed on top of them ([Fig. 112]). The chinook fire is good for baking, frying, broiling, toasting, and is an excellent all-around kitchen camp stove.
The Hobo