A junior high school geography class in La Palma, California, offers extensive field trip experiences to teach students methods of historical-geographical research. Resulting from a course that develops research methods in social studies, a club was formed that provides overnight excursions in various field activities. The club is open to 9th and 10th grade students who have completed prerequisite course offerings that provide background in the fundamentals of historical research. Through the use of primary and secondary source materials, students develop skills in map and chart reading and interpreting survey reports and aerial photographs. Members of the club apply this knowledge while participating in field expeditions that can last from a 3-day weekend trip to 11-day outings during long school vacations. In the field, students learn the techniques of historians, geographers, archaeologists, and geologists in identifying geological landmarks, looking for historical artifacts, and surviving in primitive conditions. One such activity allowed the students to spend a week at Fort Bridger, a nearby community resource, living as much like the original poineer inhabitants as possible. Students keep accurate logs of their activities and findings. Evaluation is based on students' written reports and overall performances. After completing the course students view social studies as a vital, living study and better understand the importance of cooperation and working together. (Author/JR)