The 2nd Annual North American Tough Guy Book Club: Camp of the Distant Land returned to the beautiful Camp Blanton in Harlon, Kentucky from September 18th through the 21st. It was named after That Distant Land (2004), the first compilation of short stories by Wendell Berry, Kentucky’s native son. Goons from all over the United States made their way to this spot nestled at the feet of the Smoky Mountains. Many new guys joined the camp, as well as many returning campers. This year we had a lot of Goons sharing their skills with camp. We had woodworking classes, beer tastings, bourbon samplings, card trick lessons, lino cutting, journal making, clarified cocktail tasting, and a tutorial on how make your own clarified bourbon blackberry smash using a milk washing technique.
You might be thinking that this sounds like a jam-packed weekend, but there is more. Most of the guys ventured to hike the Knobby Rock Trail on Sunday morning, which allowed an unobstructed view of the surrounding mountain range. A hive of yellow jacket wasps made for a wonderful opportunity for the hikers to increase their heart rates, strengthen their ankle tendons, and break land speed records as they launched themselves down the trail.
This year’s camp book was Hillbilly Hustle by Wes Browne. Browne is a native Kentuckian who lives within the Kentucky River Basin in Madison County, Kentucky. He drew many characters from his experience as a criminal defense attorney, prosecutor, and public defender in Appalachia for over 25 years. He is also a coach, a poker player, and helps run pizza parlors for his family. Wes was unable to join the camp for its book talk in person because he was invited to a mystery book festival called Bloody Scotland in Sterling, Scotland, on that weekend. He joined us via Zoom for a rousing discussion on his books, pizza, and his method.
The fireflies did not disappoint, as they lit the grounds again this year for everyone who ventured out after dark. The weather really did not want to cooperate when we arrived, but over time the rains gave way to some sun and decent sleeping weather.
Last but not least, we need to give credit to our caterer, Stephanie, the proprietor of Granny’s Lunchbox located in Baxter, Kentucky. The food was absolutely amazing. We were treated to traditional Southern meals and desserts that led to many a Goon returning for seconds and thirds.
The only downside of a TGBC camp is that it has to end. One Goon shared during introductions that the hardest 361 days of the year are the ones that sit in between this camp and the next camp. But that will roll around soon enough and we can again expect great adventures, excellent reads, amazing friendships and new skills learned from talented fellow Goons.
By Philippe Lambert
