When fording a stream or river, the wagon master would first select a suitable spot. The crossing should be relatively shallow, with a firm bottom and no large obstacles. The wagon master would then guide the wagon into the water and slowly drive it across. If the water was deep, the wagon master might need to get out of the wagon and walk alongside it, guiding the horses or oxen.
Once the wagon was safely across, the wagon master would drive it up the bank and onto dry ground. Wagons were often damaged while fording streams and rivers. The wheels could become loose or break, and the wagon bed could fill with water. It was important to inspect the wagon after fording a stream or river to ensure that it was still in good condition.
Ferries were used to transport wagons across streams and rivers that were too deep to ford. Ferries were typically flat-bottomed boats that were powered by oars or sails. The wagon would be loaded onto the ferry, and the ferry would then be rowed or sailed across the water. Once the ferry reached the other side, the wagon would be unloaded and driven off.
Ferries were often used to transport wagons across the Mississippi River. The Mississippi River was a major obstacle for westward migration in the United States, and ferries played a vital role in transporting people and goods across the river.
