In the United States, national historic trails recognize original overland or water routes with historical significance. Nineteen trails have been established by acts of Congress. While many of these trails commemorate routes established during the westward movement of the mid-19th century, others trace their origins to prehistoric times.
Read the recently published informational picture book, then learn more at the website.
MY WAY WEST by Elizabeth Goss tells the true stories of children who traveled on the Oregon and California trails in the 19th century. Featuring quotes from primary sources such as letters and memoirs, readers learn about life on the trail. The book takes care to incorporate children from varied backgrounds including Native American and African American perspectives. The story begins by noting that the land was already occupied by Native peoples prior to the arrival of settlers. Each two-page spread focuses on a topic related to the journey such as the decision, the supplies, and bad weather. The book concludes with background information about over a dozen children represented in the book.
The NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAILS page at the National Park Service website provides access to information about nineteen historical trails that reflect routes of exploration, migration, struggle, and military action.
To visit the website, go to https://bit.ly/3iU1Ocv.
ARC courtesy of West Margin Press. Distributed by Ingram Publisher Services.
