The main mode of transport west from New England and the Hudson Valley, around 1800, was the inland waterway network that ran essentially from Albany to Oswego, with connections at Oneida County to the Finger Lakes waterways. Information can be found on the Web at http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/hisresearch.html There were some families who went by land, however. Please contact me directly with any details about the trip, and I will try and help you determine the mode of transport. Philip Lord, Jr. Acting Chief, Historical Survey New York State Museum Albany, NY 12230 [log in to unmask] Website: http://www.nysm.nysed.gov >>> Ruth Ann Messick <[log in to unmask]> 07/19 12:56 AM >>> Before the Erie Canal was built, what was the main mode of transportation across NYS (via what is now Rt. 20) when a family was moving bag and baggage to take up residence elsewhere? Particularly wondering about 1800 time period from Springfield, MA to Oneida County. God Bless Ruth Ann [log in to unmask]