The Twenty Mule Team of Death Valley

Actually, they were Eighteen-Mules-and-Two-Horses-Teams, with the more agile-hoofed horses (“wheelers”) hitched just before the wagons. Just goes to show that American marketing genius hasn't changed much in over 100 years; why be too specific? Still, there really were teams that pulled massive borax wagons through Death Valley from 1884-1888, but after that they basically became nostalgic reminders of a pioneer past (as well as a very popular trade logo). Mules were best for the job because they require less water than horses, are stronger, and--according to many people--are smarter. Given that the history of the Death Valley mining claims includes skullduggery, big business, wealth, bankruptcy, murder and suicide, this makes for a fascinating story. Focusing more on the teams than on the pioneers (as in the excellent Death Valley Memories [VL-7/96]), this nicely priced production features lively re-enactments plus fabulous historical footage (including a film from the 1904 St. Louis World Fair) showing the mule teams in operation. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: I, J, H, C, P. (R. Reagan)