Crossing the Plains, Days of '57: A Narrative of Early Emigrant Travel to California by the Ox-team Method

In Short

Crossing the Plains, Days of '57 is a firsthand narrative of the author's journey from the Midwest to California in 1857, detailing the challenges and adventures of traveling by ox-team. The book offers a vivid portrayal of the hardships faced by emigrants, including harsh weather, treacherous terrain, and encounters with Native Americans. It also highlights the camaraderie among travelers, the ingenuity required for survival, and the enduring spirit of those seeking a new life in the West.

The Story

The narrative begins with the author and his family leaving their home in the Midwest, driven by the promise of a better life in California. They join a wagon train, a common practice for safety and mutual support, and set out on the long journey across the plains. The initial stages of the trip are marked by a mix of excitement and apprehension, as the travelers adapt to the rigors of life on the trail.

As they progress, the wagon train encounters various obstacles, including river crossings, rugged terrain, and extreme weather conditions. The author describes the meticulous planning and physical labor required to navigate these challenges, such as fording rivers and repairing wagons. The group also faces the constant threat of attacks by Native Americans, which adds an element of danger and tension to their journey.

One of the most harrowing incidents occurs when the wagon train is attacked by a band of Native Americans, resulting in the death of several emigrants, including members of the Wood family. The author's detailed account of this event underscores the brutality and unpredictability of life on the trail. The survivors, including the author, are left to deal with the emotional and practical aftermath of the attack, burying the dead and tending to the wounded.

Despite these setbacks, the wagon train presses on, driven by the collective determination to reach California. The author describes the daily routines of camp life, including cooking, hunting, and maintaining the wagons and livestock. He also highlights the social dynamics within the group, noting the camaraderie and mutual support that help sustain them through the hardships.

As they approach the Sierra Nevada, the terrain becomes increasingly difficult, and the weather turns colder. The author recounts the challenges of crossing mountain passes and the relief of finally reaching the settlements in California. The journey concludes with a sense of accomplishment and a newfound appreciation for the resilience and courage of those who undertook such a perilous trek.

How It Unfolds

The Decision to Emigrate: The author and his family decide to leave their home in the Midwest, drawn by the promise of a better life in California. This decision sets the stage for their journey and reflects the broader trend of westward migration during the mid-19th century.

Joining the Wagon Train: The family joins a larger group of emigrants, forming a wagon train for safety and mutual support. This marks the beginning of their collective journey and introduces the social dynamics that will play a crucial role in their travels.

Early Challenges: The wagon train encounters its first major obstacles, including river crossings and rugged terrain. The author describes the physical labor and ingenuity required to navigate these challenges, setting the tone for the hardships to come.

Encounters with Native Americans: The group faces the constant threat of attacks by Native Americans, which adds an element of danger and tension to their journey. The author's detailed account of these encounters highlights the complexities of the relationship between emigrants and indigenous peoples.

The Attack on the Wood Family: A harrowing incident occurs when the wagon train is attacked, resulting in the death of several emigrants, including members of the Wood family. This event underscores the brutality and unpredictability of life on the trail and leaves a lasting impact on the survivors.

Pressing On: Despite the setbacks, the wagon train continues its journey, driven by the collective determination to reach California. The author describes the daily routines and challenges of camp life, as well as the social dynamics within the group.

Crossing the Sierra Nevada: As the wagon train approaches the Sierra Nevada, the terrain becomes increasingly difficult, and the weather turns colder. The author recounts the challenges of crossing mountain passes and the relief of finally reaching the settlements in California.

Arrival in California: The journey concludes with the wagon train's arrival in California, marking the end of their long and perilous trek. The author reflects on the accomplishments and sacrifices of the emigrants, emphasizing the resilience and courage required to undertake such a journey.

The People

The Author: The central figure of the narrative, the author is a young man who embarks on the journey with his family. He is observant, resourceful, and resilient, qualities that serve him well throughout the hardships of the trail. His detailed account of the journey provides a personal and vivid perspective on the challenges and triumphs of westward migration.

Captain John: A seasoned traveler who joins the wagon train, Captain John is elected as the pilot of the company due to his experience and knowledge of the terrain. His leadership and guidance are invaluable to the group, helping them navigate the dangers and challenges of the journey.

The Wood Family: A family traveling with the wagon train, the Woods face tragedy when they are attacked by Native Americans, resulting in the death of several family members. Their story highlights the personal cost of the journey and the constant threat of violence.

Jerry Bush: A young man traveling with the Holloway family, Jerry Bush plays a key role in the narrative, particularly during the attack on the Wood family. His bravery and resourcefulness in the face of danger are notable, and his story adds depth to the account of the journey.

The Emigrants: The diverse group of emigrants traveling with the wagon train, each with their own stories and motivations, form a community bound by shared experiences and challenges. Their camaraderie and mutual support are essential to their survival and success.

In Its Own Voice

"It was an anxious while of waiting, but not long. I was fearful that my hard-thumping heart-beats would be audible and frighten him away. Could it be true that I had an attack of 'buck-ague'? Perish the thought."

This passage captures the author's excitement and apprehension during a buffalo hunt, reflecting the thrill and danger of life on the trail.

"We had our first buffalo steak for supper that night. We also had the satisfaction of observing signs of jealousy on the part of the other men who had never killed a buffalo."

This quote highlights the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie among the emigrants, as well as the importance of hunting for their survival.

"The fear instinct of the brute seized the cattle, and they hovered together, bellowing, distraught with apprehension of evil."

This description of a thunderstorm and its impact on the cattle illustrates the author's keen observation of the natural world and the challenges faced by the wagon train.

What It's Really About

Crossing the Plains, Days of '57 is about the human spirit's resilience and the enduring quest for a better life. The book explores themes of adventure, hardship, and community, highlighting the challenges faced by those who undertook the perilous journey to California in the mid-19th century. It also delves into the complexities of the relationship between emigrants and Native Americans, shedding light on the tensions and conflicts that arose during this period of westward expansion.

The narrative underscores the importance of preparation, ingenuity, and mutual support in overcoming the obstacles of the trail. It celebrates the courage and determination of the emigrants, who faced extreme weather, treacherous terrain, and the constant threat of violence with remarkable resilience.

Ultimately, the book is a testament to the transformative power of the journey, both physically and emotionally. It captures the sense of accomplishment and newfound appreciation for life that comes from facing and overcoming adversity, offering a poignant reflection on the human experience of migration and settlement.

Why Read It Today

Crossing the Plains, Days of '57 offers a compelling and detailed account of a pivotal era in American history, providing readers with a firsthand perspective on the challenges and triumphs of westward migration. The book's vivid descriptions and personal narratives bring the past to life, making it an engaging read for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the pioneer experience.

The author's writing is accessible and engaging, with a narrative style that draws readers into the story. While the book reflects the attitudes and language of its time, including some period-specific terminology and perspectives, it remains a valuable historical document that offers insights into the lives of those who shaped the American West.

For those interested in the history of the United States, particularly the era of westward expansion, this book provides a unique and intimate view of the experiences of emigrants. It highlights the hardships they faced, the communities they formed, and the resilience they displayed in the pursuit of a better life.

Reading Crossing the Plains, Days of '57 is like embarking on a journey through time, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and achievements of the pioneers who helped build the nation. The book's enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect readers with the past, fostering a greater appreciation for the sacrifices and triumphs of those who came before us.