What was the cost of the westward wagon trains? Don Anderson Phoenix, Arizona The overland journey from Independence, Missouri, to Oregon or California meant a six-month trip across 2,000 miles of hard country. It was costly—as much as $1,000 for a family of four. That fee included a wagon at about $100. Usually four or six animals had to pull the wagon. Oxen were slower, but held up better than horses or mules. They were also cheaper, costing about $25 each compared to $75-$100 for


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