The Call of the Foothills

As a former professor of European history, I have always been drawn to the stories of those who lived in the shadows of their more illustrious relatives. The Remittance Man Ramble Historical Hike in Diamond Valley offered a unique opportunity to delve into the lives of the second sons of the British aristocracy, who found themselves in the picturesque yet rugged Sheep River Valley. My wife and I, both eager to explore this lesser-known chapter of history, donned our hiking boots and set off for an adventure that promised to be both enlightening and invigorating.

Our journey began at the Sheep River Library, where we met our guide, Leith Monaghan. With a twinkle in his eye and a wealth of knowledge at his disposal, Leith was the perfect companion for our trek. After a brief introduction and a discussion of the day’s itinerary, we convoyed to the trailhead, a short drive from the town. The anticipation was palpable as we embarked on the Foran Grade loop, a 6.4 km trail that promised breathtaking views and captivating stories.

Stories of the Second Sons

As we ascended the scenic ridge, Leith regaled us with tales of the Remittance Men, those second sons who, lacking the inheritance of their elder siblings, ventured to the foothills in search of fortune and purpose. These young men, often seen as the black sheep of their families, left an indelible mark on the landscape and culture of the region. Their stories, filled with adventure, hardship, and resilience, resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the countless historical figures I had studied over the years.

The trail itself was a testament to the beauty and diversity of the Sheep River Valley. Rocky outcrops and front range peaks framed our path, offering stunning vistas at every turn. As we paused to catch our breath, Leith shared anecdotes of the Remittance Men’s exploits, painting vivid pictures of their lives in this remote corner of the world. It was a humbling experience, walking in the footsteps of those who had once sought solace and opportunity in these hills.

A Taste of History

No historical hike would be complete without a nod to the past’s culinary traditions. As we reached a particularly scenic lookout, Leith surprised us with an afternoon tea, complete with snacks worthy of a Second Son. The simple yet delicious fare was a delightful reminder of the comforts these men might have sought in their new home.

As we made our way back to Diamond Valley, the day’s experiences lingered in my mind. The Remittance Man Ramble had not only provided a fascinating glimpse into a forgotten chapter of history but had also reinforced my belief in the power of storytelling to connect us with the past. For those who, like me, are captivated by the stories of those who lived on the fringes of history, this hike is an unmissable journey into the heart of the foothills.

Upon our return, we took advantage of the local discount at the Eau Claire Distillery, a fitting end to a day steeped in history and exploration. As we raised our glasses, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Remittance Men and to share their stories with fellow travelers.