BAYARD, NEB. -- The neighbors run for their video cameras and stand gawking in their soybean fields as the Mormon pioneer train appears on the horizon, a rolling anachronism on wheel, hoof and foot.

First come 36 covered wagons pulled by teams of mules and horses, followed by a truck hauling a row of port-a-potties. Plodding behind are 10 heavy wheelbarrows lugged by men in suspenders and boots, and women wearing bonnets, ankle-length dresses -- and Nikes. Bringing up the rear is a yellow school bus the trekkers have dubbed the "wuss wagon."