DCHP-1 Online
van ((n.)) Lumbering 
1 n. a large chest containing numerous small articles for sale to persons working in a lumber camp.
See also: wanigan (def. 1c)
- 1883 This "van" is a very peculiar institution of shanty life. It is an immense chest, made of the strongest wood, ribbed with iron bands, and secured with a mighty padlock, of which the foreman and clerk only possess each a key.
- 1947 From the "Van" you could purchase mitts and socks if necessary, as well as tobacco and matches. . . .
- 1961 Each man bought a small butcher knife for himself from the "van" for 25 cents
2 n. North a type of dwelling on runners having some of the functions of a modern house-trailer.
See also: caboose (def. 4b)
- 1920 A private letter from the Landing tells of a wonderful van on runners that Ambrose Doane is building there to house his bride on their long journey north.
- 1883 This "van" is a very peculiar institution of shanty life. It is an immense chest, made of the strongest wood, ribbed with iron bands, and secured with a mighty padlock, of which the foreman and clerk only possess each a key.