[Sca-cooks] Massively expensive feast WAS: Smithsonian Stuff

[Decker, Terry D.]

Not quite correct, chirhart.  The U.S. Camel Corps was created by act of
Congress in 1855 and 34 camels and 5 drivers were delivered to Indianola,
Texas in 1856.  They were based out of Camp Verde, an army post about 60
miles west of San Antonio.  When they were used, the camels performed well.
The problems were the active animosity of the Commander of the West, General
Twiggs, and the bad temper and smell of the animals, which caused problems
with horses and dogs.

In 1857, the Beale expedition brought part of the camels to California,
establishing the California herd.  Because of the Civil War, the project was
essentially abandoned in 1860.

The California herd was auctioned off in 1863 and the Texas herd was
auctioned off in 1865.  The camels were purchased by zoos, circuses, mining
companies and individuals.  A few latter recovered by the U.S. Army as
stolen property were released into the Arizona desert.

Bear

> There was a time back in Texas that the Calvary tried to use
> camels for the
> troops. Dismal failure. Some escaped and were eaten by the   Indians.
> chirhart