What's New for 2021?
Hello from Clover Creek, Oregon Territory aka Montpelier, Idaho!!! How is everyone? What are you doing this year that is new? What are you leaving behind from last year? What are the things
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Blog
The History and Significance of Grandma's Apron
I wonder if children now know what an apron is. The apron is a garment worn at the front of the body, since ancient times, for practical, decorative and ritualistic purposes. The word apron
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One of My Favorite Books About the Oregon Trail
I have often been asked by visitors what are some great books to read about the Oregon Trail? One of my favorites is:A Heart for Any Fate: Westward to Oregon 1845 by Linda CrewA Heart for A
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Wild Recipes from the Trail
Volumes could be written on the many uses of dandelion as food and medicine, indeed they
have been! This common weed is often hated and poisoned by those
preferring a “weed free” lawn, while those
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What is the Difference Between a Conestoga Wagon and a Prairie Schooner?
Conestoga Wagons were widely used for freighting. Their long boxes,
large wheels, wide rims and extra carrying capacity made them perfect
for hauling large loads or multiple families.They were mo
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How Important Was Jerky to the Oregon Trail Pioneer?
Just how important was jerky to the Oregon Trail Pioneer?Jerky had several benefits for for the Oregon Trail Pioneer. First and foremost, jerky weighed less than fresh meat. When you can only ca
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DIY Drinking Vinegars
In an earlier blog we discussed why the Oregon Trail Pioneers would take vinegar with them. Another use for vinegar is a refreshing summer drink. Commonly called Shrub.Shrub like apple cider vin
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MOST BELOVED HERB ON THE TRAIL
Hawthorn is easily the most
loved herb for the heart. It nourishes and protects the heart, and
has a rich history that is centuries old. Hawthorn can be found in
temperate regions of the North
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Why Vinegar on the Oregon Trail?
One of the most frequently asked questions from guests is, "Why is vinegar on the supply list for traveling the Oregon Trail?" Let's explore vinegar's history a lit
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What Was Hardtack?
What exactly was hardtack? I get this question hundreds of times during a season at the National Oregon/California Trail Center in Montpelier. &nb
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WOULD YOU HAVE SURVIVED??
The Oregon Trail Center is doing as well as it can with these exceptional times. Like you we are finding new ways to do things. Our pioneers did this on a daily basis while on
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