Come Along on the Oregon Trail

Between 1841 to1869 more than 350,000 people emigrated along the Oregon Trail. The 2,000-mile journey was difficult and dangerous. Travelers traversed unfamiliar prairies, deserts, rivers, and mountains with minimal help along the way.

Join Lynda Paznokas as she shares her insights into the rationale behind making the journey West, the treacherous landscapes they crossed, and the reality discovered at the end of the trail. Using photographs, journal entries, and Lynda’s own research, “Come Along on the Oregon Trail” sheds light on misconceptions about this fascinating and complicated time in United States history.

This free presentation starts at 2:30 pm in the Deschutes Historical Museum’s research library.
Space is limited
On-site parking is available.

Lynda Paznokas’ interest in the Oregon Trail began in grade school, captured by the Oregon Trail stories brought to life by her fourth-grade teacher. Her fascination grew while researching her family’s trail blazing history West. Over the past decade Lynda has photographed the Oregon Trail from Missouri to Oregon, gaining a new appreciation for the journey and historical complexities comprising this moment in U.S. history.

As an elementary and middle school teacher she has shared her enthusiasm of history with her students. She has worked as an Elementary Curriculum Specialist for the Bend-La Pine School District and has taught future teachers at the university level.
Her book, Pathways of America: The Oregon Trail, assists educators, encouraging students to develop a variety of critical thinking skills around this subject.