Going West (or, never underestimate the creative possibilities of empty shoesboxes!)

One day in early spring during the year 1852, 5 families decided to travel west and stake their claim to new land in the Oregon Territory. First they constructed sturdy wagons, which had come to be called "prairie schooners" for the way they looked like ships sailing slowly across a sea of prairie grass.




They had to plan carefully how much food to take for the 4-6 month journey, as well as all the tools and equipment they would need for setting up their new life once they got to Oregon. Needless to say, their wagons were loaded full of barrels and bundles!


In the top of one chest they carefully packed the family Bible, so that they could easily take it out and read it around the campfire at night (very top of picture). Next to this chest they packed a small cabinet with two drawers, the drawers packed full of seed packets for planting crops once they got to Oregon country (top drawer pulled out in picture).


They also carefully packed the mother's spinning wheel (in my fingers) and extra fabric for making their own clothes. The trundle bed for the children to sleep in at night was stored under the big bed at the back of the wagon (pulled out, with blue blanket showing, a soccer ball and a pair of green flipflops! Hey, it can't all be authentic!).


On the outside of the wagon they packed a chest full of dishes and pots and pans they would need for cooking each day. They also lashed their plow to the side of the wagon. This would be an important tool once they reached their new land!


They all owned horses for pulling their wagons west, but they planned on purchasing oxen at a later date, so they also hung an ox yoke on the back of the wagon.

When they were packed up and ready to go, they set out full of hope!


Every night they circled the wagons and let the children play in the center. They made a large fire for cooking and for warmth.


They sat together, eating and talking and thanking God for a good days' travel. Sometimes they told stories and played instruments and sang songs. Every Sunday they worshipped together, reading from the Bible so carefully packed in the chest.


The pass through the Rocky Mountains was narrow and treacherous, but they all passed through safely. They stopped to thank God before moving on.


Finally, they made it to Oregon Territory! They helped each other build houses and plant crops. And they all worked hard and lived well for the rest of their days.