The Wampanoag had two means of travel available to him—going on foot
or by canoe. Likewise, for the transport of his belongings and any
trade goods he could use his canoe or his back.
Travel on foot through the forests was difficult, owing to the
dense growth of bushes and low trees. There were paths worn along
regular routes, but hunters had to traverse the woods. Early
observers reported that in order to ease movement through the woods
the Indians periodically set fire to the woods and burned out the
undergrowth.[359]
The Wampanoags were efficient about the business of foot travel.
They knew the country well and crossed seemingly trackless woods
with accuracy of direction.[360] They trained at running from early
childhood and a man could travel along all day at a jog-trot with
ease.[361] The traveling costume was designed for a minimum of
encumbrance on the journey—the normal dress being the breech clout.
The traveler carried a bag of parched corn meal for sustenance and
a pouch of tobacco, along with flints and pipe. He either wore
or carried his moccasins. A quiver of arrows hung over his left
shoulder, with the end resting in his right hand. In the left hand
the runner carried his bow.[362] A small quantity of corn sustained
him during the day, and by night he would seek shelter among friends
of another village, or if alone he would kindle his own fire and dine
on corn meal and water.
For water travel, either the birch bark or the dugout canoe was used.
The bark canoe was probably preferred for travel on inland waterways,
since portages could be made with greater ease, owing its lesser
weight.[363] Birch bark canoes were said to be difficult to keep
from capsizing. The Wampanoags, however, were skilled in the use of
these bark boats, and they are described as venturing out in rough
coastal waters.[364] They were strong swimmers and quite prepared to
rescue themselves in case of mishap. The canoeist knew how to right
his craft while swimming alongside and scramble in again.[365] Canoes
were usually propelled by paddles.[366] However, the occasional use
of sails is noted. A pole served for the mast and a skin robe or two
for canvas.[367]