Two Red Cedar Logs Cut and Signed by Henry Ford and "Vagabonds" on Camping Trip, Narrows, Virginia, August 15, 1918

Summary

In August 1918, Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and naturalist John Burroughs embarked on a camping trip through the central Appalachian Mountain range. The self-named Vagabonds enjoyed hiking, exploring, sightseeing and just being in each other's company. The four Vagabonds and invited guests signed this log -- a souvenir of their outdoors adventure.

In August 1918, Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and naturalist John Burroughs embarked on a camping trip through the central Appalachian Mountain range. The self-named Vagabonds enjoyed hiking, exploring, sightseeing and just being in each other's company. The four Vagabonds and invited guests signed this log -- a souvenir of their outdoors adventure.

Artifact

Log (Wood)

Date Made

15 August 1918

Subject Date

15 August 1918

Creators

Unknown

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

00.1510.5

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. From the Estate of Henry and Clara Ford.

Material

Cedar (Wood)
Glass (Material)

Dimensions

Height: 12 in

Width: 22 in

Depth: 6 in

Inscriptions

The larger of the 2 logs is signed by Thomas Edison, John Burroughs, Harvey S. Firestone, R.G.H. DeLoach, Harvey S. Firestone, Jr., and Henry Ford. The quotation on the larger log: "YOUR BEST FRIEND IS THE ONE WHO CAN BRING OUT THE BEST THERE IS IN YOU" is signed by John Burroughs. On the smaller log is pencilled "Robert E. Lee".

Connect 3

Discover curious connections between artifacts.

Learn More