PRAIRIE SCHOONERS, AKA the Covered Wagon

What is another name for a covered wagon?

• Canvas Carriage

• Conestoga Wagon

• Pioneer Cart

• Prairie Schooner

Why were covered wagons called prairie schooners?

• Because they were made on the prairie

• Because they could float on water

• Because they were used by sailors

• Because their white canvas tops looked like sails

What was the main difference between a Prairie Schooner and a Conestoga wagon?

• The number of wheels

• The color of the canvas

• The size and weight

• The type of horses used

How many horses or oxen were typically needed to pull a prairie schooner?

• Ten to twelve

• Six to eight

• More than twelve

• Two to four

What was the purpose of rubbing the canvas with oil?

• To protect it from the sun

• To attract animals

• To make it waterproof

• To make it colorful

Where did women and children usually stay during the journey in a prairie schooner?

• Walking beside the wagon

• Inside under the protection of the wagon's cover

• On top of the canvas

• Under the wagon

Draw the following:

The top canvas could be drawn in at both ends, leaving an oval opening to admit air and light to the inside.

The canvas could be up r_____ along the sides on very hot days so passengers could catch a breeze.

Women and children usually slept and rode inside under the of the wagon's cover for p_________.

Explain why the front wheels of a Prairie Schooner were always smaller than the rear wheels?