June 1 - June 5, 2008 submitted by Janice Hinderer

Janice took over 800 photos during her few days on the trail. Here's a sampling. Thanks, Janice!

Janice wrote in ...

"We have arrived home after spending some time on the wagon train. In the beginning it was a chance to reenact a part of history, but after meeting up with the participants it became clear to us that it is not only all about the history, but about some wonderful people, new friendships and all about a part of the state of Iowa that we didn't know existed. Also, for us, it is all about the horses. We had read about the ride in Draft Horse Journal and we have Percheron horses. This gave us an opportunity to become comrades with Belgians, mules, Haflingers Quarter horses and a nice pair of Grade Percherons. We already know about all of these breeds but got to know them a lot better on this trip. It was a wonderful trip for the children that were along with their parents and a learning experience that cannot be equaled. All of the children were given a journal and were encouraged to write in it every day. I'd love to hear what some of them have to say. Many of the children worked along side the adults, driving, shoveling, watering and I am sure that many of them learned more on this trip than a year of school could ever provide. Weather, geography, local history and the various people met along the route were things that enhanced everyone's life. It can't be beat. Due to a tight schedule at home, we went for 2 days and stayed for 4 days. Thanks for the opportunity for the best vacation ever. We would like to go for the rest of the trip the next two years and hope that we will be able to do just that!"

Click thumbnail to enlarge and open the slideshow window.