Avon

Westward Ho………..

What kind of supplies did the pioneers take? A variety of guidebooks, newspaper articles, and helpful tips in letters from friends or family who had already made the trip provided different lists about what and how much was essential to survive the five-month journey. The critical advice was to keep things as light as possible, and to take easily preserved staple foods. Supplies in each wagon generally had to be kept below 2,000 pounds total weight, and as the journey progressed and draft animals grew tired, many pioneers had to discard excess food and baggage. Items taken by nearly all wagon parties included flour, hard tack or crackers, bacon, sugar, coffee and tea, beans, rice, dried fruit, salt, pepper and saleratus (used for baking soda). Some also took whiskey or brandy, and medicines. Minimal cooking utensils included a cast iron skillet or spider, Dutch oven, reflector oven, coffee pot or tea kettle, and tin plates, cups, and knives, forks, spoons, matches, and crocks, canteens, buckets or water bags for liquids. A rifle, pistols, powder, lead, and shot were recommended for hunting game along the way, and for self-defense. Candles were used for lighting, as they were far less expensive and lighter than transporting oil, and several pounds of soap was included. Only two or three sets of practical, sturdy, and warm clothing of wool and linen had to last the wear and tear of the journey, and a small sewing kit for repairs was important. Quilts made of scraps of fabric provided warmth for the cold nights and inclement weather conditions.  Basic tools such as a shovel, ax or hatchet, and tools to repair wagon equipment were essential. Bedding and tents completed the list of necessities. For most families, 1,600-1,800 pounds of their supplies would be food, leaving little space for other items.

Being the great-great-great granddaughter of a pioneer family on my Fathers side; it was logical in my mind to honor not only the birthplace of the Oregon Trail, but also participate in this quilt project.  I chose the Missouri Star quilt block. Missouri served as the springboard for countless westward-bound settlers. My own relatives came overland on the Oregon Trail by covered wagon settling in the rich and fertile Willamette valley.

I’ve tried to instill a sense of wonder and appreciation to my children about their roots and their ties to this beautiful state. This year 2009 marks the sesquicentennial (150 years) of Oregon’s statehood.  There are many things occurring in honor of this statewide celebration. If you should find yourself traveling through here, feel free to drop me a line, maybe we can meet somewhere and I can serve as a gracious hostess and ambassador to the state that is the namesake of the Oregon Trail.