The earliest known covered wagons were first seen around 1717 near the Conestoga River in Pennsylvania. These large, early wagons were called Conestoga wagons.
The covered wagon would be a major mode of transportation in the United States for hauling goods and transporting people until railroad trains took hold around 1850. Covered wagons helped push the American frontier all the way to the Pacific Ocean.
Types of Covered Wagons
There were three main types of covered wagons that were used to transport settlers across the country.
Conestoga Wagon
These were large, heavy wagons, designed to haul larger and heavier goods and required a team of 6 horses to pull. Consequently, these wagons were used for shorter trips.
Prairie Schooner
This shorter and lighter wagon was designed to move a family’s belongings over great distances. Because of the limited room inside, storage boxes, barrels, and rope-tied bags were hung on the sides of the wagon. Since horses were expensive, Prairie Schooners were light enough to be pulled by mules or oxen, animals that would be much more useful once the settlers found their destination.
Chuck Wagon
This was a smaller wagon that acted like a traveling kitchen. It was used to transport food for a large group where meals could be cooked and served.
The Cover
To keep the wagon’s contents free of blowing dust and rain, the covers, called bonnets, were made of heavy canvas coated with linseed oil to keep it waterproof. Drawstrings on either end allowed the bonnet to be closed at least part of the way if a storm occurred.
A Rough Journey
Because there were no paved roads in the 1800s, riding inside the wagon very rough. Because of the rough ride, not many people rode inside. They instead walked alongside or rode animals. The pace was very slow and the covered wagons only traveled a few miles a day.
Conclusion
The covered wagon was not the perfect mode of transportation, but these wagons help deliver supplies to cities and were responsible for the westward expansion of the United States.
At Southwest Arts and Design we offer a model of a prairie schooner for sale to our wholesale customers. This detailed covered wagon features real wood construction with a fabric cover.
