A Woman Pioneer on the Oregon Trail

A Woman Pioneer on the Oregon Trail

Lisa Foster

HIS/115 U.S. History to 1865

The year is 1869, the countryside was free and social equality surrounded us. The first railway was just being completed. My significant other has been conversing about beginning a new life and achieving something better. I was undecided, for this way of life was all I have recognized. He spoke of gold and wealthy acreage in the west. I was not prepared for what was in-store, as I used up my time planting in the courtyard and working needlepoint. My husband was a financial expert. We came up with the decision to trade all of our worldly possessions and embark on our quest out west. My assignment was to get the carriage in order, as this would act as our living quarters for the trip. All of the provisions had to be organized and collected. We crossed numerous rivers, some individuals used their accessories to make it across the waters. Others became famished because of running out of rations. I attempted to feed any starving babes since they were defenseless. Every night I hung my head in sorrow, as I seen comrades being slaughtered and perishing from infection.

We had finally come to rest at the end of our journey. The tedious chores and fatigue were not remotely close to being finished. We started constructing our residence. This meant various days without dormancy. I learned to use an axe and labor beside my spouse. I started planting our crops when spring broke. Our land was cleared of trees and debris by my husband, with the help of the oxen. I would carry water to the cabin for the chores of cleaning, cooking, and hydrating the harvests. There have been several Native Americans in the vicinity, there had even been a man murdered. This is terrifying to comprehend. Most of the time my husband is busy drudging and excavating the property. As of yet no gold has been sighted and I am beginning to ponder why we are here?

Reference

Pioneer Women,...