About Dug North

I grew up playing in the woods of Vermont, reading wilderness survival books, and hunting and fishing with my father. I was good at taking things apart, but not at getting them back together.

Because of my fascination with the ways humans have lived in different times and places, I studied anthropology at the University of Vermont, earning a Bachelor’s degree. After that, I studied the history of technology at Rennselaer Polytechnic Institue, eventually earning a Master’s degree.

Being the curious sort, I have had several different careers and interests including mechanical art, fabrication, design, archeology, history, antique clock restoration, and others.

In recent years, I have focused on learning wilderness skills such as making friction fires, pitch glue, bark baskets, stone tools, bow hunting, cordage, edible plants, shelters, traps, and more. It was the dream of a lifetime to be selected for Season 12 of History Channel’s hit show ALONE.

One of my side-hustles is a product called Lighter·Knife — a small, sturdy pocket knife that integrates with a standard Bic lighter. I believe this little device can help make people better prepared for a wilderness survival situation, and maybe even save a few lives.

My mission is to use my curiosity and creativity to learn about things from past and share what I’ve learned to help empower others.