For
many years Independence was the most popular "jumping
off" point on the Oregon Trail. Here the emigrants
stocked up on supplies and prepared their wagons. There
was generally a festive air in Independence in the spring.
The newcomers collected information and misinformation,
made friends and enemies, changed proposed destinations,
and behaved in general as though they were on a picnic.
Because
of the fear of Indian attacks (which was largely unfounded),
emigrants often tried organize a traveling party here, because
no one wanted to head west alone. When a wagon "train"
had been assembled, a quasi-military organization was often
formed.
Capt.
R. B. Marcy in The Prairie
Traveler:
ìAfter
a particular route has been selected to make the journey
across the plains, and the requisite number have arrived
. . . their first business should be to organize themselves
into a company and elect a commander. The company should
be of sufficient magnitude to herd and guard animals, and
for protection against Indians. An obligation should be
drawn up and signed by all the members of the association,
wherein each one should bind himself to abide in all cases
by the orders and decisions of the captain and to aid him
by every means in this power.
National
Frontier Trail Center
Located in Independence, the museum/archive is worth a visit
if you are in the area.
