One of my all-time favorite programs at Oakwoods was their annual Hobo Ways presentation. Mention the word 'Hobo' and many people conjure up the image of a bum or tramp in their mind. It's very important to distinguish between hobos, tramps, and bums as the hobos are sensitive to the titles. Hobos are workers who travel to find work. Many are skilled craftsmen. They are workers. Tramps travel but don't work and Bums are just those who typically don't work and don't travel.
Being a Hobo was not a matter of being poor, it was a way of life for many adventurers who traveled the rails in search of something better. In this program, a makeshift encampment or “Hobo Jungle” was created near the railroad tracks, where we were able to experience this unique way of life enjoyed by many. During this program, we learned of the trials and tribulations of the Hobo lifestyle and even learned a few of the symbols they use to inform other adventurers of the hospitality and dangers of an area.
Every year, since 1900, the town of Britt Iowa has organized an annual "Hobo Day" celebration. The National Hobo Convention is the largest gathering of hobs, rail-riders, and tramps, who gather to celebrate the traveling worker. The annual convention is held the second weekend of August.
The Cache: The cache is a small lock & lock hidden along the Long Bark trail at Oakwoods Metropark. See waypoints for parking and trailhead locations. A Metroparks Geocaching permit has been filed with the Southern District Interpretive Services Supervisor and is on file with the park office.
| This cache is located within Oakwoods Metropark, a part of the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority park system. A Metropark Vehicle Entry Permit is required: Annual Permit $40. Senior(62+) Permit $29. Daily Permit $10.
For general information please call 810-227-2752 or 800-47-PARKS. Or visit our website at www.metroparks.com.
All park rules and regulations apply. Park in parking lots only. Check the Metroparks website for park hours.
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