Part 6/11:

Without refrigeration, preserving food became an art form. Settlers often used techniques such as packing meat in barrels lined with flour to keep it cool and shielded from sunlight. Cooking supplies were equally important, encompassing frying pans, kettles, and occasionally reflector ovens, which allowed them to bake even in the midst of their arduous travels.

Hunting and Gathering Along the Way

While many traveled with around six months of supplies, the need for fresh food often arose during the journey. By the 1850s, traders began to set up posts along the trail, although prices were steep. Many pioneers reverted to hunting and gathering as a more economical approach. This included foraging for wild onions and fishing whenever possible.