December 2008
Hunting Shack Life
As we wrap up another season of deer hunting and move toward the holidays we reflect on one of the many recreational opportunities Koochiching County has to offer. Whether referred to as the shack, the farm, or "The Polish Ponderosa" - shack life is about far more than the hunt. For many, hunting season is a special time of year that means family, friends and traditions while others continue the shack traditions all year long. Hunting shacks vary from the well worn shacks to the nicely appointed homes away from home with rustic appeal and everything in between.
The Glowack family speaks fondly of "The Polish Ponderosa" and what the hunting shack means to them. The shack was built by Grandpa Ben Glowack, family and friends in 1982 as a special place for family gatherings. This season twenty-one family members have been involved in the shack ranging in age from eighty-nine to four years old, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. A few of their family traditions include the hunter's wall of fame, opening season group photo's from1982-2008, camp fires and conversation until early morning hours and remembering and celebrating loved ones who have passed away. One family member speaks of the shack being special enough to bring him "home" after eleven years out West, a place where each generation learns respect of firearms and preservation of the natural resources. Another family member speaks fondly of the memories that have been made and the memories yet to come…and oh yeah, there is also the hunt!
Fall and shack life is a special time for many, some because of the hunt, but for others because of the values, traditions and memories that last a lifetime. Most hunters in this beautiful wooded area have a love for the land and an appreciation and respect for the animals. People come from far and wide to enjoy the season and many are in awe of the splendor that nature has to offer. Often non-hunters enjoy the hunting shack life as much as the hunters.
