Oregon Trail

Free land would summon
many to the west, never
to return again

~ carliewired


The historic 2,200 mile wagon route between Missouri and Oregon was initially laid down by fur traders and trappers between 1811 and 1840. At that time it was only passable on foot or horseback. Between 1840 and 1869 pioneers were encouraged to move west to fulfill their dreams. Over 500,000
people made the journey. This route was not straight, smooth or direct. The journey took roughly 6 months to complete. It was a journey of many dangers and challenges. Pioneers followed streams, wound around hillsides,lugged their heavy wagons up steep slopes and crossed hazardous rivers. Each wagon carried provisions and supplies for the journey.

In 1978 U.S. Congress declared the old wagon road as the Oregon National Historic Tail, in recognition of its importance in American history. There are some 300 miles of the trail still visible. A portion can be viewed at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Baker City, Oregon.

This morning we woke in Baker City to see that snow had dusted the hill tops surrounding us. We were at the Interpretive Center by 10. It is perched on the hillside where the wind blew very cold today. No snow had landed on the ground there, so we were very thankful.

The center offers visitors a look into the lives of those making the epic journey across America. The dioramas are life-like. Displays are attractive and explanatory. Artifacts of the time are informative. I can highly recommend this center.