EMIGRANT TRAIL 28531-2
Red Emblem on Tan
Designed by Nancy Gere for Windham Fabrics

ABOUT THE DESIGN
Beginning around 1841 and continuing until the mid-1860s, over 350,000 Americans moved to the western United States. To date, this marks the largest peacetime migration in history. Their goal was to reach the Oregon Territory, California or Utah. The reasons for leaving home varied, but most centered on making a better life for their families. In 1849, the discovery of gold drew even more emigrants to Colorado, Idaho, and Montana.

The westward journey to fulfill this "manifest destiny" took four to five months. Most families traveled by covered wagon across as many as five unique trails. The trip over the Rocky and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges was both difficult and perilous.

We salute those brave emigrants who opened up America's west with the Enduring Emigrant Trail collection. These unique 19th century designs impart the history and lore of American's prairie west.