Troubles Along The Trail

The Payne family was sharecroppers in south west Kentucky. It was apparent they couldn't get ahead that way. The family of four decided they should go to southern Texas, and create a ranch. Their journey started after they built their own covered wagon. Then with their meager possessions they started out in March 1848. Routine hardships of travel turned worse when thugs attempting to rob them and take the two women. The gunfight left dead thugs and the Payne's possessions increased with horses, saddles, guns and other possessions of the outlaws. It was their first taste of what to expect. Outlaws destroyed a mother and father and wounded eight year old Dawn, who the Payne's nursed back to health. The huge black dog became her companion and protector. She named her Big. Now with two wagon, they continued. Their adventures include meeting Muskogee Creek Indians and finally arriving at Fort Smith. Their compassion resulted in them hiring two disabled ex-soldiers and assisting them in overcoming their disabilities. The trail continued to present risks, but now the seven are better equipped to overcome the troubles of the untamed west. Read on to share their travels, as they find a suitable place for their ranch.