What city was the jumping off point for most wagon trains?


What city was the jumping off point for most wagon trains? Independence, Missouri, a frontier village of only a few hundred people poised on the edge of American civilization, was the principle jumping-off point for three of the western trails.


How much did it cost to join a wagon train?

When a family decided to join a wagon train, it often had to save money for three to five years before it could even begin the journey. The wagon cost around $400. The cost of the trip with supplies could be as much as $1,000.


How common were Indian attacks on wagon trains?

Surprisingly, considering how many wagons went West, very few faced attacks by the Indians. A well-led and disciplined train was more likely to get through without problems. The opposite was often true for small trains where discipline was lacking.


How long did it take for a typical wagon train to go west?

The covered wagon made 8 to 20 miles per day depending upon weather, roadway conditions and the health of the travelers. It could take up to six months or longer to reach their destination.


How many miles a day did wagon train go?

How many miles would a typical wagon train travel per day? Wagons traveled between 10 and 20 miles per day, depending on weather, terrain, and other factors. Some wagon trains did not travel on Sunday while others did.