Independence, MO became a "jumping off" point from river to land. Independence Landing is where the emigrants got off the Missouri River steamboats from St. Louis, ready to embark upon the trail to the West. These pioneers "set sail" in wagons, that were called "prairie schooners", covered with cloth of light colors for protection. Generally, the wagons were pulled by oxen and weighed around 2,500 pounds when loaded. Independence was the overlanders’ last contact with real civilization, and the last chance to purchase necessary goods. Wagon Trains were organized to travel in groups for safety and with a guide. The travelers needed wagons; oxen, horses or mules; supplies of food that wouldn't spoil; and parts for repairs - some brought supplies and personal items with them. They needed enough necessities to get them through the journey west, but some brought too much and had to dump it by the trail later as the trail became long, steeper and tiring.
The National Frontier Trails Center in Independence contains excellent information and exhibits about the Oregon, Mormon, California, Pony Express, Santa Fe Trials, and pioneer life.
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