Conestoga Wagons in Braddock's Campaign, 1755

"Conestoga Wagons in Braddock's Campaign, 1755" by Donald H. Berkebile is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. This work explores the role and significance of Conestoga wagons during General Edward Braddock's military campaign against Fort DuQuesne in the French and Indian War. The text delves into the logistics, challenges, and the socio-economic context surrounding the transportation efforts that were essential to the expedition. In the book, Berkebile details the logistical hurdles faced in acquiring the necessary wagons and teams for Braddock's campaign, especially highlighting Benjamin Franklin's involvement in gathering local farmers’ wagons. The narrative exposes the struggles between military needs and the interests of local populations, including the Quaker opposition to war and the subsequent dictating of terms for wagon use. Ultimately, the book illustrates how transportation difficulties, poor road conditions, and the inadequacy of the available teams and wagons contributed significantly to the failure of Braddock’s expedition, leading to a crucial military defeat with long-lasting implications for colonial America.