From School Library Journal
Grade 4-7?From 1821 until 1879, when the railroad brought an end to the wagon trade, the 775-mile trail was the major commercial route linking citizens of Santa Fe with traders from the Missouri frontier. Lavender chronicles the development of commerce along it, clearly explaining the risks travelers faced, as well as the potential for profit that attracted so many traders. The process of preparing a large party of wagons for the 7-to-10 week journey will engage readers, as will the accounts of travel at various times during the history of the trail. The many individuals who worked on a wagon train, from proprietors, captains, and lieutenants to teamsters, mule skinners, and bullwhackers, are all described. Details such as the cost of wagons, their cargos, and the food eaten on the journey will satisfy report writers. The author distinguishes among the different Indian tribes travelers encountered, offering insight as to why some were considered hostile and others peaceful. Native American views of the pioneers are also presented. Well-placed, black-and-white reproductions, including historical photographs, complement the text. There is no glossary and the index is not extensive, but overall this is a carefully written and worthwhile purchase. Pair it with Along the Santa Fe Trail (Albert Whitman, 1993), which gives one young girl's perspective.?Kristin Lott, East Brunswick Public Library, NJ
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
