On the Move!

Lesson Five

Background Information

As the colonies grew, roads became more and more important.  Most people walked or rode horses to get from place to place.  Farmers relied on wooden carts to transport crops short distances.  Wealthy colonists had horse-drawn carriages.  During the 1750's the first stagecoach lines started. The colonists used a Conestoga Wagon to travel long distances; it was like a house on wheels.  Sleds pulled by horses were used during the winter months.

People during those days traveled very little compared to today's mobile society.  They traveled to attend church services, transport produce, purchase supplies or visit neighbors.  Some traveling required the use of canoes or barges.  Ships were also used to travel back to Europe from America.

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