Going Along the Emigrant Trails
by Barbara Fifer
published by Farcountry Press
- Children ages 8 to 12 can learn about the journeys of emigrants who traveled 2,000 miles across mountains and prairies to start new lives.
From 1851 to the mid-1860s, nearly 350,000 Americans traveled west to Oregon Country or California. Going Along the Emigrant Trails details their experiences, ranging from endless meals of bacon and bread to blizzards, and from dangerous river crossings to gathering buffalo poop.
Author Barbara Fifer details who these travelers were, where they traveled, and what their lives were like along the way, including real-life journal entries from children along the trail. Numerous color illustrations, historical photographs, and maps are included.
Fully illustrated!
48 pages, 8 1/2'' x 11'', 11 b/w photos, 4 color photos, 73 illustrations, 3 map(s), 68 softcovers per case, Smythe-sewn
softcover
ISBN 10: 1560373547
ISBN 13: 9781560373544
$14.95
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Storm Chasers! On the Trail of Twisters
Going Along with Lewis and Clark
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| Going Along the Emigrant Trails |
| "Emigrant wagons were smaller, lighter-weight versions of the Conestoga wagons. The wagon boxes had flat bottoms and straight sides. Above the wagon bed, four or five bows held a bonnet made of sailcloth that was varnished for waterproofing. Many emigrants added slogans, such as 'California or Bust' or 'Smith Family from Wisconsin.' Hinged boxes inside held provisions and the floor was crammed with goods a family needed to start a new life. Some wagons had two floors, which provided more storage space, but made the load heavier. Ropes, whips, and other tools were tied underneath or beside the wagon bed. A rubber bag of axle grease hung on the side, along with a barrel of drinking water."
-Chapter 4: How Did They Get There? |
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The late Barbara Fifer was a freelance writer and editor in Helena, Montana. She authored and co-authored popular histories and geographies for adults and children, including five books on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. |
Finalist, Juvenile Nonfiction, ForeWord Magazine Book of the Year Awards, 2006