On this Day: Oregon Trail!

On May 22, 1843 thousands of folks began heading west by wagon trail from Independence, Missouri on the route now known as the Oregon Trail. If you've ever been part of a class that studies the western migration and pioneer life, you'll know that there's a certain magic to that particular lesson. Perhaps it's a child's desire to explore a new world that wins them over; or maybe it seems like the best camping trip ever. Here's a couple of finds related to the Oregon Trail and prairie life. (And, yes, we know that the Little House books weren't about the Oregon Trail).

1. Laura Ingalls Doll Etsy, $13.00

"Laura character doll with long brown braid, hand painted face, pioneer dress and even a broom to sweep up the prairie dust! She stands about 4 and 3/4 inches tall and has a base so you can put her just about anywhere!"

2. Pioneer Prairie Dress Etsy, $55.00

"Made in true Laura Ingalls styling, this outfit includes elbow length sleeves with large Peter Pan collar and ruffle at the shoulder.This dress has a full skirt and attaches to a fully lined yoke with buttons in the front."

3. Pioneer/prairie bonnet Etsy, $6.99

This bonnet is 100% cotton and is child-size.

4. Roughing It on the Oregon Trail Amazon, $6.99 (Ages 4-8)

"Diane Stanley's spirited, humorous, and historically accurate depiction of day-to-day life on the Oregon Trail is brought to life with Holly Berry's energetic illustrations." 

5. Quilt Block History of Pioneer Days Amazon $8.95 (Ages 4-8)

"Cobb's well-written text will hold youngsters' interest, and the information about pioneer life is neatly tied to particular quilts, illustrated with simple, colorful watercolor sketches. Best of all, the projects use a pattern, cut paper, and paste, and range from a bookmark to a greeting card to a recipe folder." 

Bonus Pioneer Activity: How to Make Butter

It's incredibly easy to make your own homemade butter. And kids will love helping out and watching the dairy magic happen!