the covered wagon
M. Ashley Szczukowski
AMH 2010
March 17, 2010
The Covered Wagon
In today’s society, just thinking about not having the use of transportation is unimaginable. Well think about how it must have felt in the 1800’s; it was very different. People did not have cars to make their daily commute. Without cars, how do you think they would get from one place to another?
In colonial times the Conestoga wagon was popular for migration southward along the Great Wagon Road. After the American Revolution it was used to for business to Pittsburgh and Ohio. In 1820 rates charged were roughly one dollar per 100 pounds per 100 miles, with speeds about 15 miles (25 km) per day. The Conestoga, often in long wagon trains, was the primary overland cargo vehicle over the Appalachians until the development of the railroad. The wagon was pulled by six to eight horses or a dozen oxen and was shaped like a boat, as to keep the goods from falling out. The inside flooring was curved upward to avoid shifting of the cargo on the trip. There was generally a toolbox, of sorts attached to the side for future repairs. The covers overhead also known as bows were made of cloth to protect the passengers from the heat, sun exposure, rain and snow. The wheels were large spoke wheels that would prevent the wagon from getting stuck in inclement weather. The wheels and spokes were generally reinforced with metal and needed to be oiled along the way (Thinkquest.com).
When packing for a journey, most travelers packed light to ease the burden on the animals. Supplies for the journey took precedence over all else. A Dutch oven, three-legged skillet and coffee pot were considered vital for food preparation, and of course there must be room in the wagon to transport food. Bedding and a minimal amount of clothing was packed, as well as firearms for personal protection. First aid kits including liniments, bandages and surgical supplies were included, as well as sewing supplies, clocks, furniture,
AMH 2010
March 17, 2010
The Covered Wagon
In today’s society, just thinking about not having the use of transportation is unimaginable. Well think about how it must have felt in the 1800’s; it was very different. People did not have cars to make their daily commute. Without cars, how do you think they would get from one place to another?
In colonial times the Conestoga wagon was popular for migration southward along the Great Wagon Road. After the American Revolution it was used to for business to Pittsburgh and Ohio. In 1820 rates charged were roughly one dollar per 100 pounds per 100 miles, with speeds about 15 miles (25 km) per day. The Conestoga, often in long wagon trains, was the primary overland cargo vehicle over the Appalachians until the development of the railroad. The wagon was pulled by six to eight horses or a dozen oxen and was shaped like a boat, as to keep the goods from falling out. The inside flooring was curved upward to avoid shifting of the cargo on the trip. There was generally a toolbox, of sorts attached to the side for future repairs. The covers overhead also known as bows were made of cloth to protect the passengers from the heat, sun exposure, rain and snow. The wheels were large spoke wheels that would prevent the wagon from getting stuck in inclement weather. The wheels and spokes were generally reinforced with metal and needed to be oiled along the way (Thinkquest.com).
When packing for a journey, most travelers packed light to ease the burden on the animals. Supplies for the journey took precedence over all else. A Dutch oven, three-legged skillet and coffee pot were considered vital for food preparation, and of course there must be room in the wagon to transport food. Bedding and a minimal amount of clothing was packed, as well as firearms for personal protection. First aid kits including liniments, bandages and surgical supplies were included, as well as sewing supplies, clocks, furniture,