The Unforgettable Journey
Historical Wagon Train Run Completed
By Jim Gill (8/29/2008) [VISIT THE OFFICAL PHOTO GALLERY]

Once a major highway for thousands of early pioneers 200 years ago, parts of the Old Chautauqua Trail were revisited with the Bicentennial Wagon Train run that provided some insight to the hardships they encountered.
A total of 32 wagons led by the authentic Concord stagecoach driven by Jim Little from Crosspatch Stables and drawn by Maggie and Phoebe two magnificent Bercheron horses led the train on the 14 day, 180 mile journey throughout most of the county.

Two years in the making with countless meetings, thousands of hours preparing the wagons, horses and gathering logistics all came together on Saturday August 9th when the train left Ellicottville to begin this epic ceremonial journey ending in Little Valley with a large celebration on August 22nd. During the two week journey thousands of people of all ages turned out along the roadways, in small hamlets, villages, towns and cities to witness a once in a lifetime experience in commemoration of the Cattaraugus County Bicentennial.

The journey far exceeded the expectations of the Little family and friends whom organized the historical event, any problems that occurred had already been anticipated during the planning stages and were quickly taken care of. As the wagon train traveled the hardy group averaging 100-125 people each day were very touched by the reception they received by well-wishers and the many signs posted along the trail. Many of the residents along the route passed out homemade cookies, pies and other types of food to the members of the train as they passed their homes.

At days end each village, town or city they stayed in provided a welcome dinner prior to the evening activities and sendoff breakfast the following morning. There were many highlights along the way; several examples that stood out took place in Gowanda where a large group of Native Americans in full native dress welcomed the wagon train with ceremonial dances and Salamanca where hundreds of people and many dignitaries lined the main street to commence their bicentennial celebrations with the arrival of the train. Several days prior to the wagon train leaving Ellicottville on the start of the journey, State Governor Paterson issued a citation commending citizens of Cattaraugus County on the celebration of the bicentennial and the special Wagon Train and Stagecoach Run.

Asked if they would do it again Dolly Little responded “there may be a possibility but on a much smaller scale, we would never want to take away the importance of the stage coach run and it could never be done the same.” Since the runs conclusion, Jim and Dolly Little along with their children whom accompanied them on the trip have been busy at the Crosspatch getting caught with the many chores including the main one, getting the hay cut and into the barn.