California Emigration

The discovery of gold gave a great impetus to overland emigration to that State. Most of the emigrants from the eastern States came by boats to Kansas City, St. Joseph, and Leavenworth, and there procured an out-fit for the journey across the plains. Horses and oxen were necessary to draw their trains, and the demand for them became very active. Large herds of cattle were formed and driven to the Golden State. The people of our County were largely benefited by this increased demand for their products. Many citizens joined the tide of fortune-hunters that flowed to the Golden State; but very few realized the fond hope of acquiring a fortune.

Crosby Johnson, An Illustrated Historical Atlas of Caldwell County, Missouri.   1876.  Edwards Brothers