The overland trail diaries written by brothers Patterson and Michael Luark during their journey from Illinois and Indiana to Oregon Territory in 1853 are presented in parallel format with extensive footnotes. The brothers' diaries complement each other well, and together they portray a full and rich description of their journey. Patterson traveled with his family, while Michael's remained in Indiana, adding the dimension of family to their narratives. Of particular interest to both trails enthusiasts and scholars, the brothers traveled some unusual trail routes, encountered special trail...