Serving Whitman County since 1877
Serving Whitman County since 1877
John Wayne Trail Riders participate in the 2018 Rosalia Battle Days.
Although the John Wayne Pioneer Wagons & Riders canceled its normal cross-state ride this year, riders and the public are still able to enjoy the trail vicariously thanks to a virtual ride posted on the group's Facebook page.
"We are following the itinerary and schedule of the John Wayne Pioneer Wagons & Riders on their annual cross-state ride," said Mark Borleske. "The virtual ride is supplemented by a virtual historic tour of the route with historic Milwaukee Road railroad photos and commentary."
The virtual ride and tour started May 21 and has followed the group's regular progression across the state. The tour reached Revere June 1 and continued to Ewan and Malden for the two day rest before going into Rosalia on the weekend for the Battle Days Parade--which was also canceled this year.
Members of the group, including Borleske, post pictures, video and commentary in correlation with each day of the ride.
On June 3, Darlene Brady posted:
"Virtual Ride 2020
Day 13
Ewan to Malden
23 Miles
Mornin Ewan☀
Another long ride today ,but it is also so beautiful you are content. We leave our campsite and ride around the end of Rock Lake. Across Farmland, thru forests, country back roads and over rivers and trestles Truly breathtaking. A ride back in time only to be experienced on this amazing trail.
Arriving in Malden is always a huge treat for all of us. Camping in the beautiful City Park for 2 nights as we enjoy the local visitors, wonderful meals provided by the Morning Star Ladies, Town Garage Sales tomorrow, showers, rest time and listen to the old western music that plays on speakers everywhere. You never knew little towns like this even existed. Refreshing and so unique.
And we are here for 2 days."
The ride came to a close June 17 with reflections on Tekoa, the Feeding Station and Plummer, Idaho.
The group marks its 40th year for the ride in 2021.
The Cascade Rail Foundation, dedicated to the history of the Milwaukee Road across Washington, also posted daily historical photos to match the journey going west to east from the days of the Milwaukee Road. That information was shared by Borleske through the rider's Facebook page or can be found at http://www.facebook.com/Cascade-Rail-Foundation-180201851368. A summary of the virtual history tour of the Milwaukee Road has also been posed to the Cascade Rail Foundation website http://www.milwelectric.org.
The entire 18 days of the ride can be viewed at http://www.facebook.com/groups/JohnWaynePioneersWagonsandRiders.
Jana Mathia is a reporter at the Whitman County Gazette.
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