OCTA actively works to preserve historic emigrant trails through trail mapping, trail marking, site identification, archaeology, and trails legislation.
The Oregon-California Trails Association (a non-profit, 501 (C) (3) Association) is the nation's largest and most influential organization dedicated to the preservation and protection of overland emigrant trails and the emigrant experience.
OCTA members protect the trails to prevent the destruction of trail remnants, graves and other trail-related sites. Members also place markers on the trails and maintain existing markers.
OCTA also encourages the study of the trails through its publications and through the development of classroom materials for teachers. Members also map the trails and collect data for the documentation of overland diaries, newspapers and other materials.
OCTA headquarters are located on the grounds of National Frontier Trails Museum (318 West Pacific, Independence, MO 64051) and house the Merrill J. Mattes Research Library.
OCTA also initiates and coordinates activities relating to the identification, preservation, interpretation and improved accessibility of extant rut segments, trail remains, graves and associated historic trail sites, landmarks, artifacts and objects along the overland western historic trails, roads, routes, branches, and cutoffs of the Trans-Mississippi region.
Contact Information
542 S. Osage St.
Independence, MO 64055
Phone: 816-252-2276
Location Type
Museum
Site Info
AC / Heating
Giftshop
Parking
Restrooms
Staffed
Water Fountain
Wheel Chair Accessible
