Trading

Trade. Trade. Trade. Lifeblood to successfully crossing the continent was trading. Horses, moccasins, buffalo robes, dressed deer, elk skins, foodstuffs, lariats and ropes were all acquired from the Indians. Indians, in turn, prized blankets, clothing, needles, thread, trinkets, guns, tobacco, foodstuffs, fishhooks and alcohol acquired from the pioneers.

“Camped on the Snake, Indians came with salmon to sell. I let them have Helen's apron with a needle and tread and bought salmon enough for several meals. I wish you could eat with us. Certainly never tasted any fowl or fish half so delicious.” Lucia Loraine Williams, July 31, 1851

“We all had what we wanted by trading, shirts, pants, blankets or any kind of clothing or bedding to the Indians.” Edward P. Wallace, 1852