Who: ASCO’s Barlow Road field trip participants, other ASCO members, public
When: Friday, May 29th 2:30 p.m.-4:00ish
Where: Deschutes Historical Museum Library (129 NW Idaho Avenue, Bend)
Details: No reservations required, no cost to attend, seating is limited
Background:
Between 1841-1869 at least 350,000 people emigrated along the Oregon Trail, one of
history’s largest and longest peacetime migrations. This approximately 2,000-mile
journey was difficult and dangerous across unfamiliar prairies, deserts, rivers, and
mountains, with just a few forts to help along the way.
Presentation:
Join Lynda Paznokas (ASCO member) as she shares what it would have been like to
travel cross-country into territories unknown, the rationale behind those making the
journey West, and the reality of what they found there. Through photographs, journals,
and her own research Lynda will help clear up misconceptions about this fascinating
and complicated time in United States history. There will be a display of Oregon Trail
books to enjoy and a handout provided.
Presenter:
Lynda Paznokas’ interest in the Oregon Trail began when researching
her own family’s trailblazing history West. As a fourth grader she was
captured by the Oregon Trail stories her teacher brought to life and
later as a fourth grade teacher herself, having the opportunity to share
these stories with her own students. Over a decade she 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. Lynda was a teacher and 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.
