Monday, February 16, 2009

WAGON'S HO



Cowboyz

In the old west, life on the road could be a real burden. People had to take in many hardships that we today in society do not even think about or take for granted. Pioneers of their days, many had to travel months in extreme, downright catastrophic conditions. Many encounters on the roads would come in such forms as being caught in blizzards, running into common enemies , losing horses, and worst of all losing their own lives. Civilization was not as far spread as it is today, so being stuck out in the middle of nowhere could have diar consequences on human life. A man/woman could be stranded in a part of the country they have never been, and if they screamed for help at the top of their lungs, chances are that nobody would hear their cries.

Back then, the folks of the west would not go anywhere without bringing weapons, where today it could cost you some heavy jail time. Most of the people on the "road" then, had to hunt and prepare their own food where as today, we have a Dennys every 10 miles. This would create a problem for everyday folk of today, but back then it was a daily ritual. Food was a scarce item for them, so competition for it in the open country could lead to trouble. Many on long trips across the plains of the southern states, would often find themselves confronted by hostiles/thieves of all kinds whom would steal their food, take their weapons, and cash leaving them only a bucket to 'do stuff' in. This also, could have serious effects on human life.

All in all, I think that the way they traveled in that time period 'paved the way' for us modern folk. If you really look at it through the eyes of the men and women that did what they had to do in order to survive, to them it was just everyday life. Most of the people today have a hard time respecting these mens' and womens' hardships, for if they do not have a brand new SUV they are looked at as being "under achievers". Unlike all, some of us are just as happy driving around in that same old 1969 rusty mustang, for it takes us to where we need to be.



Indianz

In the time before time, travel was a challenge not a leisure activity. These days the trail is just as long but made of asphalt, concrete and steel. It is traveled by tribes of a new breed, on horses with names like Ford, Chevrolet and Honda. The time spent setting up camp is now spent at diners, rest stops or local attractions. The long treacherous road now smoothed over.

The spirit of striking off into the unknown is still alive, bringing with it sensation's of freedom and danger. Although still looked at as an adventure, it should be compared to viewing wild exotic animals at the zoo. There eye's showing the loss of their killer instinct.

Now some would like to say that things have changed for the better over time and that we have come a long way from outhouse's and saloon's. But can one really grasp the full understanding of a lifestyle without experiencing it firsthand. I have to admit, the thought of a journey through hostile Indian country, sounds better with a car.

"YOU SEE THE SIZE OF THAT CHICKEN"


Cowboyz And Indianz

2 comments:

  1. i'm going to enjoy this. having moved from the East Coast and now living in the Southwest has given me lots of insight into how difficult it had to be. those wagon trains had to really stand out to the indians as one can be high up and see for miles and miles across the desert floor. it's easy to detect clouds of dust far in the distance. i agree with Greg. great blog!

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