Massachusetts rebels against British tyranny. Mississippi goes hunting with the president. Michigan refuses to leave Toledo. Minnesota celebrates Christmas with friends. And Montana listens to a war story. These are the stories of the 50 States of A...
Oregon. The 33rd state was the long-awaited destination for many travelers during the 19th century. The Oregon Trail was the longest wagon route among the trails to the West, spanning around 2,170 miles in length from Independence, Missouri to Oregon Territory. Before the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in 1869, many wagon riders went on a long, dangerous journey to the West.
During the early spring of 1848, little Oregon had recently became a territory. Tasked to prepare her home for statehood, she must head back home and work to become a state. This was her story over the course of her journey back home.
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March 1 ~ Independence, Missouri
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The start of our journey began in Independence, Missouri. The place was very lively the first time I arrived in the town with Alfred by my side. I was anxious when he told me his states would be the ones to escort me back home; he wouldn't be the one to guide me back home. His boss didn't want to risk the lives of average men. Instead, the second expedition would consist of people who couldn't die easily.
The states who "volunteered" were nice to me, more or less willing to put their health and time at stake for my safety to an extent. Of course, they would be compensated for the time they spent on guiding me back home. Although, I doubt any amount in the world could appease them. Alfred told me not to worry though. He trusted his states would get me back home. Instead of worrying about their opinions, I should get to know them.
I tried to get to know the states who would be escorting me.
There was the guide, Melissa Westbrook (Missouri). The blonde-haired, blue-eyed girl was familiar with the West thanks to the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Familiar with the landscape, she was destined to lead the group, however, her willingness to lead the expedition was her weakest point. She told me she had nothing against me, rather she wished they picked anyone else but her to do this tedious task. I couldn't say I disagree with her, but it still hurt knowing she felt that way.
Next, there was the driver, Kenneth Boone (Kentucky). The brown-haired, brown-eyed teenager was in charge of driving the oxen and wagon along the trail. At first, I was skeptical of his talents considering he's better suited with horses from what I heard. He reassured me he was the best man for the job although I doubt his judgement. He did confuse poison ivy for herbs, so I'll be sure to keep an eye on him.
Then, there was the forager, Eliza Kirkland (Virginia). The brown-haired, gray-eyed woman appeared more fitted for domestic work than journeying. I was incredibly worried she might not handle the long, dangerous trip. However, she proved to be gifted in plants and medicine along with being great in cooking, organizing, and sewing. She told me she was excited for the trip, saying the trip would be a great experience for her, so hopefully her hopes remain high throughout this journey.
Lastly, there was the hunter, Trent Crockett (Tennessee). The brown-haired, blue-eyed teenager was quite a charmer although his bad puns were enough to knock some sense into me. The reason for his stay in the group involved his talent in rifles and knife. His purpose was not only to hunt for food, but also to protect us from any hostiles along the way. If we're lucky, hopefully he won't have to resort to violence during the duration of the trip.
