Oregon Trial Journal

Audrey and Spencer Ramsey

 

May 1st, 1843

           As we set off from Independence, MO we felt sad to go because I really liked this place.  I hoped that I would like the new place better.  It was challenging to leave, because it hurt inside to leave my belongings and my friends. 

           There are a lot of pretty houses here in Independence, MO.  But mostly all I can see is wagons, and lots of them!  I felt kind of sad leaving, but I made a friend named Jed Sawyer. 

           Before we left I decided to fill up my water kegs, but unfortunately, the water was contaminated with Cholera, a deadly virus.  Luckily, we found out before we drank it.  I also bought oxen just before heading out.  We are hoping their strength will carry us far.

 

May 2nd, 1843

           The weather was terrible, but we had bigger problems.  We had to cross the Blue River.  It took us a day and a half, but we made it safely.  It was extremely hard to get  all our stuff on the ferry, and swim across with our animals, because we had a lot of animals.  I was very worried about our food getting wet, since it was all we had. 

           One of the ferry guards had kittens and he gave me one.  I named him Norman, and he is a good companion to me.  He even likes to ride in the wagon and on the oxen’s head.