Pre-Trek Tours Offered at Church History Museum

The Church History Museum is offering pre-trek tours for youth and adults planning to attend an upcoming pioneer trek. These tours offer insights into pioneer life, while highlighting the pioneer’s trek westward and the handcart experience. To schedule a group tour, call 801-240-4615.

TREK Check-In Schedule

TREK Check-In: Tuesday July 6th from 5:30 to 7:00 PM
All Rice Bags and 5-gallon buckets need to be at the Stake Center.

Departure: Wednesday, July 7th no later than 6:30 AM.
All youth need to be at the Stake Center ready to go. Don’t be late! You will be transported to the trek site by bus. Everyone must be dressed in their pioneer clothing.

Return Home: We will be at the Stake Center between 2:00 and 4:00 PM Saturday July 10th

Only 2 months to go!! We're excited are you?

Are you walking and breaking in your shoes?

This month during a mutual activity all Trek attendees will be going on a hike. This activity will give trekkers the opportunity to see if they have the proper shoes and physical endurance for Trek.

Haven’t made your ancestor bracelet or spoon?

Come to the Stake Center gym on Saturday, May 22nd from 8 am to noon and everyone who is going on trek is invited to come and make their bracelets and spoons.

Girls: need help making an apron, dress or skirt?

Gina Ellis, Trek Sewing Chair from the 2nd ward, has made a few Thursday nights available to help those who need sewing done. Give her a call by Wed. night and you can come by her home for a sew-in on Thursday. She’s amazing!
Contact Info: 801.726.7625

She'll be available during the day 10 - 12, and 7 - 9 p.m.
She has machines, cutting areas, etc., so you just need to bring your fabric, thread and other supplies.

Figuring yardage is pretty simple and any of the clerks at JoAnn's or other fabric stores will give you help if you ask.

Bloomers: Measure from waist to top of foot, double that number. Now divide that number by 36 and that is the yardage you will need. You will also need 1/4" elastic to put in the legs and 3/4" to put in the waist. One pkg of each would be enough for 1 pair of bloomers.
If you don't wish to make bloomers just pick up a couple pair of pajama pants at WalMart and a pkg of 1/4" elastic and that will give you great bloomers for little work.

Skirts: Measure from waist to ankle, double that number. Now divide that number by 36 and this is the yardage you will need. This formula for the skirt will work great for small to medium girls. If you are a size 12 or larger, triple the measurement you got from waist to ankle and then divide that by 36. This will give extra fullness needed. You will also need 1 pkg of 3/4" non roll elastic and thread to match.

Apron: All girls should be able to get their apron, pockets, and tie out of 1 1/2 yards. Pick a fabric that isn't a really light color, as it's going to get dirty. Thread to match.

There are also apron patters online:
http://web.archive.org/web/20070817074529/http://home.mindspring.com/~angeliakay/id2.html

http://www.mormontrek.net/Pack/PDF/Aprons.pdf

Girls: need help making an apron, dress or skirt?

Gina Ellis, Trek Sewing Chair from the 2nd ward, has made a few Thursday nights available to help those who need sewing done. Give her a call by Wed. night and you can come by her home for a sew-in on Thursday. She’s amazing!
Contact Info: 801.726.7625

She'll be available during the day 10 - 12, and 7 - 9 p.m.
She has machines, cutting areas, etc., so you just need to bring your fabric, thread and other supplies.

Figuring yardage is pretty simple and any of the clerks at JoAnn's or other fabric stores will give you help if you ask.

Bloomers: Measure from waist to top of foot, double that number. Now divide that number by 36 and that is the yardage you will need. You will also need 1/4" elastic to put in the legs and 3/4" to put in the waist. One pkg of each would be enough for 1 pair of bloomers.
If you don't wish to make bloomers just pick up a couple pair of pajama pants at WalMart and a pkg of 1/4" elastic and that will give you great bloomers for little work.

Skirts: Measure from waist to ankle, double that number. Now divide that number by 36 and this is the yardage you will need. This formula for the skirt will work great for small to medium girls. If you are a size 12 or larger, triple the measurement you got from waist to ankle and then divide that by 36. This will give extra fullness needed. You will also need 1 pkg of 3/4" non roll elastic and thread to match.

Apron: All girls should be able to get their apron, pockets, and tie out of 1 1/2 yards. Pick a fabric that isn't a really light color, as it's going to get dirty. Thread to match.

There are also apron patters online:
http://web.archive.org/web/20070817074529/http://home.mindspring.com/~angeliakay/id2.html

http://www.mormontrek.net/Pack/PDF/Aprons.pdf

March Bracelet Activity

"It is not enough to study or reenact the accomplishments of our pioneers. We need to identify the great, eternal principles they applied to achieve all they achieved for our benefit and then apply those principles to the challenges of our day. In that way we honor their pioneering efforts, and we also reaffirm our heritage and strengthen its capacity to bless our own posterity and “those millions of our Heavenly Father’s children who have yet to hear and accept the gospel of Jesus Christ.” We are all pioneers in doing so."

-Elder Dallin H. Oaks, October 1997 General Conference

Personal Equipment List • Trek 2010

Please eat a complete, healthy breakfast before leaving home Wednesday, July 7th.

EVERYONE should bring:

• 1 very warm sleeping bag (temperature can fall to 30 degrees at night)
• 1 old blanket (wool is preferred)
• 10’ x 8’ minimum heavy-gauge visqueen (enough plastic to serve as a ground cloth and shelter from the rain; can be stored in your handcart)
• 1 metal pie plate
• 1 wood spoon that you carved
• 1 tin cup
• 1 small hand towel
• 1 comb or brush
• 1 toothbrush and toothpaste
• 1 deodorant
• 5 Band-Aids and prescribed medications only
• Book of Mormon and your favorite church magazine
• 2 heavy-duty plastic garbage bags (to line burlap bags)
• 1 pkg moleskin (optional – available at almost any pharmacy)
• 1 chapstick with sunscreen
• Insect repellant w/ Deet
• Sunscreen
• 1 pen or pencil
• 1 fanny pack
• Your ancestor bracelet that you made

Clothing items for EVERYONE:

• 1 old coat (heavy and warm)
• 1 HEAVY DUTY rain poncho
• 1 old pair of tennis shoes
• 1 pair of well-broken-in hiking shoes—don’t buy new ones, they’ll give you blisters (If necessary, substitute with sturdy walking or tennis shoes instead) No Keds or Boat Shoes
• 4 pair sturdy long socks (such as wool hiking socks)
• 3 sets of underclothing
• 1 warm sleeping cap (ski cap)
• 1 pair of warm gloves

PLEASE DO NOT BRING OTHER FOOD, SNACK OR CANDY ITEMS

MEN should bring:

• 2 long-sleeved button-down shirts—no T-shirts (suggest 1 flannel and 1 light-colored cotton)
• 2 pair of wool, canvas or cotton pants—no denim levis, camouflage, or cargo pants
• 1 wide-brimmed western style hat—no baseball or army hats
• 1 plain belt

The Stake will provide neckerchief. All clothing should be free from obvious advertisements or logos.

WOMEN should bring:

• 2 low-calf length, long-sleeved cotton dresses—no denim OR 2 low-calf length skirts & long sleeve buttoned modest high necked cotton shirts
• 2 pair bloomers that go down to your socks (no longer than your ankle bone)—old pajamas, hospital pants, or long capris acceptable
• 1 apron (bring one with big pockets)
• 1 warm sleepwear (thermals work great)
• 1 bandana
• feminine hygiene supplies

The Stake will provide a bonnet. Please do not bring makeup or other personal hair products.


-All of the above items need to be stored in the rice bag (provided by the Stake) or the 5-gallon bucket (can be purchased at any local hardware store). Please clearly label your bucket and rice bag with your name and ward.

Optional Items:

• Camera and film
• Harmonica or other small instruments
• Consider glasses instead of contacts when possible

No Cell Phones, Ipods/MP3, Gameboys/DS or other electronic items allowed. Please do not wear jewelry or watches. Flashlights to be provided by Trek Mas and Pas for families.

Please arrive dressed in pioneer clothing. You will be wearing one set of clothing when you arrive, and the other set you will use for changing. Ask around or visit second-hand stores such as Deseret Industries. Don’t wear clothing that you wouldn’t want subjected to heavy use.

Trek 2010 Family Equipment List

The following is a list of equipment items that the Ma’s and Pa’s are requested to have available for their trek family.

• 1 - 12” or 14” Dutch ovens (tagged)
• 1 - Self-standing camp stove (tagged)
• 1 - Propane tank (tagged and filled w/ propane to cook meals)
• 1 - Pair of gloves (for hot items)
• 2 - 5-gallon water containers (w/ at least one spigot) - filled
• 1 - 5-gallon bucket w/ lid (storing items & washing dishes)
• 1 - Large plastic mixing bowl (for food prep & rinsing dishes)
• 1 - Enamel camp pot w/ spout (to boil & pour water)
• 2 - Large serving spoons
• 2 - Large, sharp knives (for food preparation)
• 1 - Carving fork or pair of metal tongs (for turning meat)
• 1 - Metal ladle (may or may not use)
• 1 - Can opener
• 1 - Medium-sized cutting board
• 1 - Small container of Clorox (to add to dishwater)
• 1 - Small bottle dish soap
• 3 - Dish rags
• 3 - Dish towels
• 1 - Dutch oven scrub brush w/ handle
• 1 - Pair salt and pepper shaker
• 1 - Small container of vegetable cooking oil
• 1 - Plastic water spray bottle (to cool youth)
• 2 - 20’ x 25’ (at least) plastic tarps
• 1 - Stove lighter &/or matches in film canister
• 1 - Shovel (small collapsible type)
• 1 - Hatchet w/ hammer back
• 1 - Pair Pliers
• 1 - First aid kit w/ small pair of scissors and moleskin
• 2 - Flashlights w/ batteries
• 1 - Vial consecrated oil
• 1 - Small duffle bag for family “bounty” items
• 1 - Six-man tent (for rain-to be kept in backup truck)
• 1 - Easy-up for each family
• 1 - Pkg baby wipes
• 2 - Plastic wash bins
• 1 - Large Rubbermaid type tub or bin w/ lid (to store all kitchen/cooking items)
• 1 - Ace bandage
• 1 - Black Sharpie marker

--Remember to bring your copies of Recipes for meals provided at training

* PLEASE LABEL ALL ITEMS WITH YOUR NAME, WARD, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER

(Ma’s please bring extra feminine hygiene items for daughter’s emergencies)

The stake will provide the following: Toilet paper, paper towels, garbage bags, ropes (100ft x 30ft), nylon twine, duct tape, extra tarps

March TREK Activity: Ancestor Bracelets

Tongue Nor Pen Can Never Tell The Sorrow

“It is good to look to the past to gain appreciation for the present and perspective for the future. It is good to look upon the virtues of those who have gone before to gain strength for whatever lies ahead. It is good to reflect upon the work of those who labored so hard and gained so little in this world, but out of whose dreams and early plans so well nurtured has come a great harvest of which we are the beneficiaries. Their tremendous example can become a compelling motivation for each of us, for each of us is a pioneer in his own life, often in his own family, and many of us pioneer daily in seeking to do God’s will and lift and serve those around us.”

Gordon B. Hinckley

(photos coming soon...)

Past TREK Attendees' Testimonies

"I would like to challenge everyone who is going on trek to study the lives of those who originally made the journey. I know if you learn about the lives of the pioneers your experience on trek will be one that can change your life. As I have studied the things that the early pioneers went through, I have gained a stronger testimony and appreciation for what they went through for all of us. I know that the pioneers didn't cross the plains alone and that Heavenly Father helped them every step of the way. I also know that even though our trials may be different today, Heavenly Father is still there for us and He does listen to our prayers and helps us through our trials. I know that Joseph Smith was and is a true prophet who restored this church on the earth. I know that Jesus Christ lives and loves all of us and we can all return to him someday through the blessings of the atonement. I know that President Monson is a true prophet today. I have a testimony of the Book of Mormon and its truthfulness and I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the only true church on the earth."

Youth on Stake Youth Committee

Be Prepared

Physical Preparation:

• Walk 2 to 3 times a week. Try for 3-4 miles in one hour.

• Choose your shoes for trek and make sure they are well-worn by trek (to avoid blisters).

Spiritual Preparation

• Personal regular study of Book of Mormon. As you read the scriptures, think of the trek while you ponder and underline the word "remember" with a green pencil.
• Personal prayer each day
• Pray to listen to the Spirit--then follow promptings

• Study your ancestors and the handcart pioneers

Local Shortage of Pioneer Clothing Due to High-Demand

Due to many stakes in the Layton and Syracuse areas attending a trek this summer, pioneer-style clothing is becoming hard to come by. Plan early and start shopping today! In some cases, the skirts are selling out the same day they come in. Also, have your tin cup and heavy poncho ready to go weeks in advance of trek. Don't wait until the last minute!

Dressing in pioneer clothing can have a tremendous impact on the spirit of the trek. The following is a short description of how pioneers dressed and it is our hope that this will be helpful as you prepare for trek.

Men’s clothing:
Men’s shirts were worn loose. Plain colors were common, but stripes or plaids were also used. Light colors will be coolest. Choose something larger than a regular fit, with long sleeves.

Pants were also worn loose. Colors include blue, black, gray, browns, especially beige and tan. For our trek, choose rather loose fitting through the crotch and thigh area to add comfort in walking. No Levis, camouflage or cargo pants. Make sure you have 2 pairs of wool, canvas or cotton pants.

Suspenders: Men’s pants were held up by suspenders that were buttoned on the outside of the waistband, and crossed in the back.

Hats: Choose a wide-brimmed western-style hat (No ball caps allowed).

Women’s clothing:
Dresses: In pioneer times, women’s basic dresses were floor length. It could be plain or have many ruffles. The sleeves were full, and long, with buttons or bands at the writs. Necklines were usually high, with buttons up the front. Fabrics were cotton in solid colors or small print. Bright colors were popular (especially bright yellow). For our trek, dresses and skirts need to be mid-calf in length (so the girls do not trip over their skirts while pulling). Long sleeve blouses and long skirts or jumpers could be used.

Aprons: The standard apron was six to twelve inches shorter than the skirt length. It gathered at the waist and tied. The bib attached at the waist and was pinned to the dress bodice at the top two corners. Daytime aprons were made of calico remnants. Sunday aprons were made from white fabric and did not have a bib. For trekking today, large deep pockets are important to be able to carry different items along the trial.

Bonnets: Women wore bonnets whenever they were outside. They were made of cotton with a deep stiffened brim and back ruffle to protect the neck. They could be white, plain colors or a print, but they never matched the fabric of the dress. Today, bonnets for the girls are important, they need to have something they will wear to protect them from the sun. Our wonderful Stake Sewing Committee will provide bonnets for each attendee.

Pantaloons were worn underneath the dress and were normally white. They reached between knee and mid calf. You can use scrubs or pajama pants hemmed shorter. Make sure the bottom of your pantaloons have an elastic band to keep dirt away from the legs. Wearing pantaloons also helps to maintain modesty in trekking situations.

Shoes: For both women and men, shoes need not be “period” style. Comfort is most important. Do not wear new shoe unless you have taken at least two months to break them in. Bring two pair, so if one gets wet or cause blisters, the other pair can be worn.

Clothing Sources: 2nd hand stores or borrowed clothing is the best way to go. Deseret Industries is a great source for pioneer clothing.
Here are some resources for ready made clothing to give you ideas of what you can be looking for as you're shopping:
(There are others if you search the internet)
http://whiteelegance.com/
http://sercal.com/
http://www.theoldwestgallery.com/
http://www.westernemporium.com/
http://www.riverjunction.com/
http://www.reenactmentcostumes.com/index.htm

Trek Supplies

IMPORTANT: With MANY, MANY stakes in Syracuse and Layton, attending a trek this year, get your clothing ASAP. The girl's clothing will be harder and harder to find as the summer progresses. In some cases the long skirts sell out the day they come in. Even the second-hand stores are slim in their selection due to high demand.

Also, look over your equipment list and get the other items early as well. Good rain ponchos and your tin cup are items to get early. This is one area you can't leave until the last minute!

One addition to the equipment list:
Each attendee needs one 5-gallon bucket to store their sleeping bags and scriptures in. This will keep these items dry in case of rain.

Thanks!

Trek Registration Info & Forms

TREK forms must be completed, signed and returned to any Ward Trek Committee Member or your Ward Young Mens/Young Womens President no later than March 14, 2010.

Each participant (adult and youth) must complete all forms. To download a pdf version of the forms, click here.

Trek Activity Schedule 2010

All youth and adults involved in Trek should be invited to each ward's activity.

The activities are held on the regularly scheduled activity nights for each individual ward. Young Mens and Young Womens leaders will work together to set the dates for each activity.

• March Activity: Ancestor bracelets

Youth and adults attending Trek will research their pioneer ancestors or read about pioneers who crossed the plains, and pick one who they will Trek for prior to this activity - Stake and ward Family History Specialists can teach those involved how to research their pioneer ancestors.

• April Activity: Wooden spoons

The raw materials such as wood blocks and sandpaper will be provided. The tools to complete these wooden spoons should be provided by each ward at the activity. These spoons will be each persons only eating utensil on Trek.

• May Activity: Ward hike

This activity will give the youth and adults the opportunity prior to Trek to see if they have the proper shoes and physical endurance, etc. These hikes should be at least 3 miles and provide enough of a challenge to prepare.

• June Activity: Dutch Oven Cooking

This activity is designed to be fun, while preparing those involved how to cook and clean with dutch ovens.

Thanks,

Anna

Five promised blessings

Each participant that attends Trek and gives 100%,

is given these five promises:

1. Increased faith and awareness of who You really are and your self worth.

2. Learn to love and appreciate more your own Families.

3. Greater appreciation of Pioneer Heritage, both historical & today.

4. Learn to love and serve your Trek Family.

5. Gain a stronger love for and faith in Jesus Christ and his gospel.

Upcoming Trek Fireside

Don't forget the TREK Introduction Fireside Feb. 21 at 5 pm at the Stake Center. It's for everyone attending TREK, their parents and youth leaders. You can register for TREK that night and also pick up any forms you might need. Come and catch the spirit of TREK.

Who can go to TREK? Anyone 14 years old (or entering 9th grade in the fall) to 18+ years old (if you're not married and not on a mission). Invite your friends to go. It will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.