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January 23, 2014

The FrameUp? A Brief History of the Modern Backpack

aaa_trapper-nelson-patent.jpg

In 1922, Lloyd F. Nelson patented the Trapper Nelson backpack.
It was based on earlier Native American pack frame designs, and clearly evolved separately from the Norwegian pack designs. .... The pack features a full frame with an attached bag, which could be removed. The curved waist piece that we see on the Bergans design is not present here, nor is any other device which would serve to transfer weight onto the hips. While the frame provides considerable rigidity, the weight of the pack is largely supported on the shoulders. Wood Trekker:

Posted by gerardvanderleun at January 23, 2014 3:40 AM. This is an entry on the sideblog of American Digest: Check it out.

Your Say

This is really a tip toe through the tulips for me. My first back pack was a Trapper Nelson. It was infinitely more comfortable than the surplus GI framed rucksacks that became available after WWII. It helped me back pack all over Rocky Mountain National Park in the 40s and 50s.

Posted by: Jimmy J. at January 23, 2014 7:54 AM

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