Route Across the Rocky Mountains

Rating:
Summary: Engaging
Review: While reading this book one can easily see why Overton Johnson and William Winter's personal narratives of the 1843 Great Migration to the Pacific is heavily cited in Oregon Trail literature. With wonderful descriptions of day to day activities, adventures and people experienced along the trail, there are also superb first-hand accounts of climate, landforms, agricultural and economical possibilities in Oregon and California. The chapter "Instructions to Emigrants" acted as a guide for future overlanders by explaining provisions, modes of transportation, clothing, firearms, character of Indians, etc., including a general estimate of mileage between campsites with available (or not available) wood, grass and water. This is a very readable, enjoyable and historical record of early pioneers traversing the continent. Excellent!