The Studebaker was a sturdy wagon with steel axles that could withstand trail duty that could last up to 5 months. Huge conestoga wagons were never used by the pioneers--they were just too unwieldy. The wagon carried all of their worldly possessions along with the Dutch ovens and other cooking utensils that would be needed to provide hot meals for each family travelling the long westward trail. Instead, the emigrants used small farm wagons. Although they appear simplistic, farm wagons of the 1840s were technologically-advanced vehicles. For example, the complex undercarriage centered around a kingpin, which allowed the front wheels to pivot, so the wagon could turn easily. And the front wheels are smaller than the ones in back--which also helped the wagons to round sharp corners. Even the width of the wheels was carefully calculated. Wide wheels were more effective in soft, sandy soil. Narrow wheels worked better on hard surfaces.The cotton covers were typically drawn shut at both ends to keep out the dust that was ever present.

What animal would pull the emigrant's covered wagons? That question was hotly debated among the Oregon-bound pioneers.

Horses were quickly rejected because they could not live off prairie grasses along the way. As a result, most of the emigrants decided on oxen. They were strong; could live off grass or sage; and were less-expensive. One pioneer is quoted as, "The ox is a most noble animal, patient, thrifty, durable, gentle and does not run off.Those who come to this country will be in love with their oxen. The ox will plunge through mud, swim over streams, dive into thickets and he will eat almost anything."

There was just one problem: oxen were slow--about 2 miles-per-hour. There was an alternative for those in a hurry--mules. Mules were faster, and they too could live off prairie grasses. But many believed mules didn't have quite the staying power of oxen. But perhaps the biggest problem with mules was their cantankerous disposition.