Transportation

Methods of transportation around the Puget Sound area were limited by the terrain. The few roads that existed were subject to ruts and mudholes.

Travel with oxen, and wagon or cart was used by the emigrants, because this is what they had with them. In places where they found the going to muddy for a traditional wagon or cart, they substituted sleds. Oxen dragged these sleds over "corduroy" roads, made by lying trees side-by-side, as illustrated below.

Credit:Archives of Ontario, S17349

The Salish Indians traveled primarily by canoe, and the settlers would learn that this method was most effective. Most people hired Indian paddlers, some tried canoeing on their own.

Modern Salish Canoes Credit: NOAA

Please visit the Related Links page to find links to more information on these modes of transportation!

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