This is one of the old homestead roads in the area. One of the first homesteading families in the area, the Mutch’s, were truly innovative when it came to making do. They moved around a bit but always lived near water. They had lived on Dog Island in Lesser Slave Lake before moving to the mouth of the Otauwau on the Lesser Slave River in 1929. in 1935 the Great Slave Lake Flood forced them from this home when it reached the ninth log of their cabin. They eventually homesteaded where Geocache SG041 is located.
They used the river as their highway and were experienced boaters.. So experienced that they taught their children at a young age how to maneuver a boat. They must have all been gifted in the art. If a boat was not readily available Mrs. Mutch would supply a couple of them with paddles and send them across the river in a washtub.
As they have previously been flooded out we are not sure whether teaching your kids how to row a washtub was an act of convenience or safety.
The Mutch’s were also known for their hospitality. Many a traveler stopped to rest and have a meal before carrying on their journey. Often times the travelers would find a moose quarter or other food items in their wagon or sleigh farther up the road.
To be of a generous nature and feed your family took a bit of work, skill and hunting luck. Mr. Mutch went out hunting with two shells for his rifle. Having no luck he returned home to find his wife and children dressing out a moose on the River ice. It turns out she bears the distinction of being one of the few homesteader’s wives to have killed a moose with an axe. A true example of taking every opportunity that passes by you when your livelihood is at stake.