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Friday Family History: Covered Wagon Travel

As I've mentioned, youngest daughter soon will be pushing and pulling a handcart as she participates in an pioneer trek re-enactment.  I've been remembering the time four years ago when John and I participated as "Pa" and "Ma" for a similar trek.  And I've been thinking about the reality of handcart, or if one was lucky, covered wagon travel. 

I have a copy of a photo that I just love.  It speaks volumes. 


Now, this was probably taken around 1920,  long after the time of the Mormon pioneers crossing the plains to Utah.  We believe the toddler on the left is my grandpa.  The man behind him is my great-grandpa, and great-grandma is in the wagon.  I wish I knew more about the circumstances of this photo.  What was the occasion?  Are they actually relocating their household, or just out for a drive?  And who is the woman on the right, hands on hips, and not looking very happy? 

Remember to label your photos.  Even if a photo just shows a glimpse of mundane life, that ordinary life might be interesting a few years down the road.  Look at how much has changed in the last 100 years.  My grandpa traveled by covered wagon, and my parents remember the cold dash to the outhouse in the middle of the night.  And I'm sure my pre-microwave, pre-home computer life will seem foreign to my children. 

What do your old photos show that would be unfamiliar to young people today?  Or what do you remember that today's generation does not?
Thanks to those who went before, and plowed ahead with determination and hard work.   And thanks to my Dad, who is a great example of determination and hard work, and whose birthday is today.  Happy birthday, Dad!


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Comments

  1. NancyJuly 20, 2012 at 7:57 AM

    This photo is priceless! It is sad that so many old photos do not have names.

    Have you seen this blog: http://forgottenoldphotos.blogspot.com/

    The blogger purchases old photos from antique stores, scans and posts them on the blog. Many with names have been returned to family members.

    ReplyDelete
  2. DebbieJuly 20, 2012 at 9:23 AM

    Great photo to have and a great reminder! Happy Birthday to your Dad!

    ReplyDelete

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