Baby backpacks are all the rage among active parents. But the idea is not new. This Native American cradleboard fulfilled the exact same purpose. Using blankets and padding, parent would secure the baby vertically on the board, and then strap the board to mom's back. The small awning would provide shade, as well as a place from which to hang decorations that would keep baby occupied while traveling. Keep in mind that these people were mobile. So this was used for more than just a casual hike! Mom had to carry baby for great distances when they were moving from place to place.