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 Back On The Trail… Hansen Restores Rare 19th Century Freight Wagon
LETCHER, SD – After more than 500 hours of detailed restoration and conservation work, an extremely rare western freight wagon is ready for even more time on the trail. The 19th century giant was brought to Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop in Letcher, South Dakota for extensive blacksmith, wainwright and wheelwright work. Originally built in the late 1800’s, the massive wagon stretches over 16 feet in length, 14 feet in height and includes a carrying capacity close to 9 tons.
According to company president, Doug Hansen, the wagon is one of six surviving freighters that saw hard duty as part of Horace Lewis’ Fast Freight Line serving Ketchum, Idaho and the backcountry silver and lead mines. Just getting into the remote, rugged region with supplies and then hauling the valuable ore out took a full two weeks. A team of 16-24 mules and/or horses pulled multiple wagons hooked in tandem. Such an arrangement meant that a single train could easily stretch out more than 200 feet, making the negotiation of sharp turns on the steep, narrow paths a feat in itself. Along the mountainous trails, the outfits were confronted with stomach-curdling drop-offs, washed out chasms, axle deep mud and an endless array of weather, equipment and animal problems.
Reflecting on the history of the wagon, Hansen shared, “This freighter is a true icon of America’s rich western heritage. While there were thousands of freight wagons supplying the western frontier in the 1800’s, very few have survived and even fewer are operational. We never cease to be amazed at the engineering feats of the early pioneers and consider it a privilege to assist in the preservation of this valuable part of U.S. frontier history.” The freighter is the second of the Ketchum wagons that Hansen has authentically conserved. Ketchum’s wagon Historian, Ivan Swansen echoed Hansen’s appreciation for the significance of the vehicle and further stated, “Doug and his team have done an amazing job. We wanted to preserve the historic integrity of this rare wagon while also reinforcing its long-term viability. Hansen’s experience, knowledge and unwavering attention to detail continue to deliver exceptional results.”
With a legacy bridging the 19th, 20th and now 21st century, 2009 marks the 120th birthday celebration for Ketchum's six historic freight wagons. Combined with a big 20 mule hitch, they’re the major attraction at the Labor Day weekend Wagon Days Festival each year at Ketchum, Idaho. Drawing more than 20,000 people, the huge event pays tribute to the giant wheels that took the dreams of the west and built a nation.
To read more about this and other early Ketchum freighters, see the Idaho Freight Wagon story at www.hansenwheel.com or pick up a copy of the August 2009 issue of Wild West magazine.
About Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop
Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop in Letcher, South Dakota is widely noted for its extensive knowledge of and experience with early horse drawn vehicles. Founded in 1978, the company specializes in bringing authentic wheeled history to life. Their commitment to old world quality and craftsmanship is matched only by a parallel passion for the American West. It’s a rare model of expertise that is consistently sought out by museums, collectors, ranches, businesses, and individuals throughout the world. Combined with a broad repository of original vehicle designs and catalogued specifications, Doug Hansen and his team are dedicated to bringing America's western legacy to life.
More information on the products and services of Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop as well as imagery of historic projects is available by visiting www.hansenwheel.com or calling 1-605-996-8754.
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