Going West in a Model T Ford

In the year 1919, maps looked quite a bit different. There were no well-charted road maps full of information about route numbers, rest stops, motels, and restaurants. Instead, a handy map might tell you which fork in the road to take or when to follow the railroad tracks. Motorists were mostly on their own.

It is in this era that brothers Jim and Bill Kackeison set off on the adventure of a lifetime. With only their compass to guide them, the two planned on driving from New York State to San Francisco, California.

During the following expedition, their plans would change several times.

The two young men encountered wolves and mountain lions in the miles of wilderness in the heart of America. At the same time, they met compassionate people who were always ready to lend helping hands. A lack of money and sickness eventually stopped them and forced them to change their route, but Jim and Bill were determined to enjoy everything the trip had to offer. In return for their bravery and sense of adventure, they were given glimpses into the lives of Americans all over the country at a time when life was changing drastically for everyone!

James Burdick is an retired minister and educator who splits his time between summers in Kentucky and winters in Florida. He and his wife Fran, have three children, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Burdick's work, Going West in a Model T Ford, is the story of his wife's two great-uncles. Jim Kackeison, one of the two uncles, shared his experiences with Burdick and asked him to "put it in writing." This is their story.