Farewell at Independence, Missouri

Independence, Missouri was bustling with people. Samuel pressed his nose against the general store’s window and moaned, “Whenever will we get to see them?” Suddenly, he spotted the billowing canvas top of a covered wagon being pulled by four brown oxen. “They’ve arrived!” In his haste to greet the pioneers, he slammed the door, causing the bell to ring wildly.

The Abrams family extracted themselves from the wagon as Daniel, Samuel’s best friend, dismounted from a gray gelding he’d been riding alongside. Daniel tied the horse to a hitching post as Samuel peered into the back of the wagon. He was dumbstruck by the sight of all of Abrams’s belongings stuffed into the four-foot-by-twelve-foot wagon. Sacks of flour and sugar, boxes of medicine, and rolls of bedding crowded the interior.

“We hung the guns from hooks last night,” exclaimed Daniel, pointing to the hoops that stretched the canvas tight. “We’ll have to rely on hunting and fishing out on the trail.”

“Great job,” Samuel slapped his comrade on the back. “Just imagine all the adventures you’ll have—crossing rivers, meeting mountain men, encounters with Indians.” He couldn’t keep the jealousy from tinging his voice.

Daniel nodded. “Dad is anxious to start farming once we arrive in Oregon. It’s supposed to be the best soil around, and it’s all free!”

A bleak horn sounded mournfully. “We best get going,” Daniel’s dad said as he started towards the lead ox. “The ferry will be leaving soon.”

“I guess this is farewell.” Samuel lightly stroked the gelding’s nose. “You are so fortunate. I’m stuck here, doing farm chores and attending school, while you’re off to Oregon territory!”

“At least you don’t have to leave all your friends and family.” Daniel quickly gave Samuel a heartfelt handshake and mounted his horse. “Take care of yourself, Samuel.” Daniel didn’t look back as he trotted down to the river after the wagon.