Bound For Oregon
A Book By Van Leeuwen
The story of a young girl
History of the Oregon trail
Wagon Trains
Many wagon trains had to cross the plains. With no wood for their fires, buffalo chips were used.
Abandoned Wagons
Abandoned wagons were a source of needed supplies for those who searched them. They were abandoned either because the people on the wagon couldn't continue, or the draft animals died.
Supplies
Many supplies were needed. In total, about 300 pounds of food per person was required for the journey west.
Why you should read this book
Mary Ellen Todd & Her Family
On to Oregon
The book On to Oregon was the base for the book Bound for Oregon. On to Oregon was a true account of Mary Ellen Todd's travels on the trail.
Storms on the Trail
Storms on the trail were a serious danger. Even a rain storm could strand a wagon for days.
Oxen
Oxen were the most common draft animal for pulling the large wagons. Unlike horses or mules, they wouldn't get stolen as often.
Main Story
Mules
Mules were the second choice in draft animals, but they were more expensive and ran away more often. They required more training and an experienced handler was required.
Horses
Horses were faster, but very expensive animals. They cost six times as much as oxen, and needed oats to eat along the trail. They didn't handle bad conditions well, and were mostly used to ride along side the wagon.
Cows?
In desperate situations, milk cows brought along for milk could be used to pull the wagon. Most would stop making milk, but they did work as draft animals.