Francis Parkman embarked on his first westward journey on April 28, 1846, from Saint Louis. The Oregon Trail chronicles his wilderness explorations, explains American westward migration, and honors the character of the United States.On April 28, Radnor-since lost-Parkman and his friend and relative Quincy A. Shaw traveled to the Rocky Mountains out of curiosity and enjoyment.They were followed by Shaw's sorrel horse, another mule, and Henry Chatillon's...