Season 1
9 episodes · 2000
1The Dream
This episode introduces viewers to hundreds of candidates who volunteered to spend an entire year living as 1870s settlers, and profiles both the intense selection process used to select the two couples and their move onto the Manitoba prairie.
2If Momma Ain't Happy...
The settlers struggle against illness, fatigue and self-doubt while plowing fields and caring for livestock; replacement couple.
3Prairie Purgatory
The settlers endure an infestation of mosquitoes; isolation and close quarters cause emotional stress.
4What Are We Doing This for?
Barn fire; strain between the two couples.
5101 Chopping Days 'til Christmas
Crop failure; the settlers begin to hunt and cut firewood; snowstorm.
6No Way, We're Not Leaving
The settles try to stay warm; deer hunting; the settlers celebrate a traditional Christmas.
7The Long Haul
During the winter months the settlers make bread, quilts, furniture and deerhide moccasins; the dentist.
8Going Home
Spring floods threaten to spoil the frozen meats and vegetables; blizzard.
9Survivors of the Real Westfinale
The settlers reflect on their experiences as they return to the 21st century.