~Promotin' Literature One 'R' at a time~
Welcome to our Historically Themed Careening Encampment!
Since 2013 our pirates have been seen making camp at various events around the Southeastern United States! We strive to bring an interactive experience to help bring historical elements to life for the public to see, learn, and enjoy.
The truth of the matter is pirates typically did not make camp on land for extended periods of time. The primary purpose for any "encampment" was to hunt, gather materials or more specifically to "heave down" the vessel. This is a process known as "Careening". Many of their tents were made of sails hoisted by oars to create a makeshift shelter.
When a vessel has need of Careening, it would be grounded broadside onto a steep beach and tethered to strong anchors on the shore. This would cause the vessels underbelly to be exposed allowing sailors to scrape away marine growth. Fouling by this growth would effect the sailing capabilities of a vessel creating additional drag. Sailors would set up a "Careening Camp" to have a space to work and rest while careening the vessel.
Our encampment offers various demonstrations and hands on activities designed to educate the public about the "Golden Age of Piracy" (1680-1720ad) and is home to our Bookaneer Tent which is a marvelous opportunity for children to receive a free book of their choice to claim as their own.
If you are interested in finding out more about our Historically Themed Careening Encampment, feel free to send us a message!
Different Types of tents
Wall Tents
Variations of wall tents have been used for centuries dating as far back as the 16th century (1500's) - in fact, there is a model of a mid-17th century wall tent on display in an English Museum! This tent was utilized by prospectors, trappers, and soldiers during campaigns.
Typical Floorplan are approximately 10'x12'
Most times associated with a shade fly for recreation or dining space.
Photo Courtesy of https://www.blockaderunner.com/Catalog/catpg31.htm
Sergeant Tents
These tents are a smaller variation to the wall tent and gained more popularity during the Civil War Era (1860's).
Typical floorplan is approximately 8'x9'
Photo Courtesy of
Wedge Tents
Variations of an "A-frame" or Wedge Tent can be seen riddled through history from raiding Vikings to Colonial Regulars and more (We lean more towards the 1700's naturally!). These come in a great variety of sizes suitable for single man use, all the way to the size of wall tent floorplans.
Floorplans typically start at 6'x6' to as large as 10'x12'
Photo Courtesy of