Patricia Take a good look at the canals in western NY during this time, also the railroads that were in existance. Via canal, one could take more belongings, via rairoad, only what you could carry, unless you were rich. Once in Buffalo, take the boat that carries you into Lake Michigan and from there you can find many starting points to head west. Don't forget, the voyagers of New France (Quebec) did this route to the Mississippi and Missouri by canoe which carried up to 10 tons of supplies. Guenter in Michigan ps: any relation the Mary Dewitt nee Thorp of Perry, Wyoming Co, NY?