Gold

As saint Joseph began to be established, in timely fashion Gold was discovered in California. Gold in California brought the pioneers from the east in great waves into Saint Joseph. 1849. Three main places became the door for western wagons. 1. Independence, 2. Westport. 3. Saint Joseph. saint Joseph became the most crucial. There were those heading north to Oregon, but the discovery of gold caused more immigrants to head further south. This caused Saint Joseph population to more than doubled from 1846-49. And then to double again the next year-1850. And the streets of saint Joseph filled with the many coming to get supplies and then take the ferry across the river to begin the 2000 mile trip. Many had to wait in tents for their turn and for the grass to green out in Kansas and for the snow in the passes to be gone. So they lingered here. Suddenly Saint Joseph became the frontier doorway. Gold in California was the focal discussion in Saint Joseph. Saint Joseph grew and thrived on the west coast gold rush. Saint Joseph offered advantages. At 1849, 19 stores were in operation. There were two flour mills, two saw mills, nine blacksmith shops, two sheet iron mills, two saddle shops. Everything needs was here at cheaper price than in Westport or Independence. 10-30 percent less price. By 1850 Saint Joseph was one of the busiest places in the nation. Half the western movement passed through Saint Joseph.