Monday, January 24, 2000

I made it to the next state, and to the Central Time zone. It was another good day of driving and while there was a high layer of clouds, it turned out to be a nice day. I was unable to see the sunrise this morning due to the clouds. Still, I was able to get an early start and head east on Route 50.

My first detour was a drive through the town of La Junta, Colorado, to see historical buildings of this old railroad town. This was also the route to Bent's Old Fort National Historical Site. Reconstructed on the original foundation of Bent's Fort built in 1833, the historical site displays the facilities as they were with a ninety percent accuracy, with information retrieved through drawings, sketches, and documentation. The fort was used as a trading post and stopping place for traders, trappers, and explorers. Even John C. Fremont was here (again, I cross the path of John Fremont!) There are many exhibits to be seen, with rooms and buildings set up as they were when the fort was in operation, and in the summer months, there are demonstrations by park personnel in period clothing. I was the first visitor there this morning, and other than the park staff, I had the fort to myself for two hours! It was a great place to explore. As for the staff, I was fortunate to meet Jennifer and Anthony, who were very helpful and well-informed. I was able to learn much about of the fort, the Santa Fe Trail, and other historical facts about the area. Another thing I enjoyed was walking on the upper level of the fort and seeing a train far off in the distance and hearing the whistle blow. It was a very serene setting. On a final note, the United States flag that flies above the entrance to the fort has 27 stars, as it did when the fort was in operation!

I returned to Route 50 East and continued my drive, enjoying the small towns along the way. The road follows the Arkansas River, and occasionally, there are historical markers indicating the path of the Santa Fe Trail. I gathered more information and at certain points, you can actually see the ruts in the ground made by the travelers of long ago. It was intriguing to think about how people made their voyage through this area by horse and wagon.

Finally, I stopped in Dodge City, Kansas, former home of Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson. I did not drive around town yet, but from what I saw advertised on the drive in, there appears to be some touristy presentations! Additionally, in my room (a Best Western,) there is a printed sign that reads:

Tomorrow I should be writing from Nebraska. Thank you for reading about my trip...Igor

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