First Earth Wilderness School,

The name First Earth represents a time when humankind walked in balance with the earth, as a member of the natural community instead of it's master. Modern civilization's indifference toward nature in pursuit of wealth and "progress" has resulted in an environmental legacy that may prove to be globally disastrous in the near future, and if we are to survive as a species, we must develop a sustainable culture that doesn't consume the planet for material gain. Learning the ancient ways can re-awaken our awareness of how little we really need to live, and be mentally, physically and spiritually nourished by that knowledge. Recognizing the sacred gift of our food plants and animals, simply even living outside and sleeping under the stars can re-aquaint us with the miracle of "the spirit that in moves in all things", and help guide us toward a healthier relationship with our world.

First Earth's Founder and Director,
Bo Brown, has worked as a wildlife biologist since 1985 and is currently Associate Director with Ozark Center for Wildlife Research. His career has taken him all over the U.S. and Central America and provided the opportunity to develop a wealth of natural history knowledge. He has presented primitive skills and nature programs for many schools, museums, and elderhostels around the country. Bo co-founded Red Willow Primitive Skills, Inc. with partner Don Brink in 1993 and instructs at several large primitive skills gatherings, such as;

• Rabbitstick - Idaho
• Wintercount - Arizona
• Ernest Wilkinson's Skills Camp - Colorado
• Bois D'Arc Rendezvous & Knap-In - Missouri

Bo also works as a naturalist for the Missouri Dept. of Conservation in Branson, MO., does part-time archaeological work in the Ozarks area for the Center for Archaeological Research, and is a professional musician.

Bo Brown

Chief Fire Eagle knapping an arrowhead at Silver Dollar City

A chance meeting and long-time association since 1978 with tribal chief and medicine man Jim Fire Eagle was a major turning point, and set Bo on the path of learning the ancient ways that he follows today. This effort is dedicated to Chief Fire Eagle's memory.