Firsthand accounts of women who braved the overland trails during the great 19th-century westward migration are collected here. The accounts were selected for the power with which they portray the hardship, adventure, and family and friendship bonds that characterized the overland experience. Some were written by educated women, and others bear the mark of cabin learning, with archaic spelling and a simplicity of expression. Each account begins with an introduction to its author and what is known about her life. A few b&w historical photos are included. Holmes (1914-95) was a professor of history at Oregon College of Education (now Western Oregon University).

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