7/14/2013:
Early settlers to Dakota Territory often traveled together in large wagon trains. These trains not only provided protection from attack, but ensured help from the other travelers. One such wagon train of Norwegian immigrants left Austin, Minnesota on May 15, 1873, bound for Dakota. Just before setting out, one of the immigrants, John Knutson, purchased two huge oxen for $100. When the party came to a large, overflowing creek, the oxen were the only animals able to pull the wagons across. The oxen also saved the day when crossing several areas of deep spring mud and clay. The immigrants took turns using the oxen, and finally, after two long months, the train arrived in Dakota Territory on this date in 1873.
Dakota Datebook written by Jayme L. Job
Sources:
Pearson, Ethelyn. 2000 It Really Happened Here: Amazing Tales of Minnesota and the Dakotas: pp. 46-47. McCleery & Sons Publishing: Gwinner, ND.