Study questions for “Getting Started: Packing and Preparing for a New Life” from the FRONTIER HOUSE Web site

Name: _____________________

List all of the different transportation options that were available to the homesteaders in the 1880s.

Which of the options listed above was the fastest? Explain why.

Which of the options listed above was the cheapest? Explain why.

Use complete sentences to describe what life in a covered wagon was like for the homesteaders.

Why was the covered wagon the most popular way to cross the country?

If they traveled via rail, would the homesteaders be able to bring all of their belongings? Why or why not? What are some of the things that they might have to leave behind?

Why did the homesteaders often wind up walking across the country?