Beginning around 1841 and
continuing until the mid-1860s, over 350,000 Americans
moved to the western United States. To date, this marks
the largest peacetime migration in history. Their goal
was to reach the Oregon Territory, California or Utah.
The reasons for leaving home varied, but most centered
on making a better life for their families. In 1849, the
discovery of gold drew even more emigrants to Colorado,
Idaho, and Montana.
The westward journey to fulfill this "manifest
destiny" took four to five months. Most families
traveled by covered wagon across as many as five unique
trails. The trip over the Rocky and Sierra Nevada
mountain ranges was both difficult and perilous.
We salute those brave emigrants who opened up America's
west with the Enduring Emigrant Trail collection. These
unique 19th century designs impart the history and lore
of American's prairie west.
