First Post

Welcome to Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop's Blog. We receive many emails asking about what's going on in the shop, so we decided to create a blog to keep everyone updated. We are always busy so check back often to see what's new!

Currently we have various projects going on...





Jerome is restoring this Drop-Front Phaeton. These buggy's were built in the late 1800's, and were popular among doctors. When finished it will have a falling top that encloses for privacy and protection from the elements. In this picture Jerome is applying a coat of dark blue paint.









This is the beautiful restoration of a Peter Schuttler chuck wagon. The body is the traditional hunter green color and the running gear which is not pictured is a bright orange with blue striping. It may sound like an odd combination but wagon makers always used bright colored gears because they hid dirt better than darker colors. In this picture Leonard is applying a protective coat over this wagon's new paint job.





This wagon is not going to be for horses it is going to be for an exhibit. This is a custom decorator wagon, many stores, restaurants, museums etc. request wagons like this to display. This particular wagon will be used to showcase supplies typically carried in covered wagons.












In this picture Tim our wheelwright is assembling a 3 Pounder Infantry Cannon. This cannon was used by the British in the Revolutionary War. As with all field artillery of the era, the spokes of the wheels extended outward at an angle from the hubs, forming a saucer shaped wheel, to give a slightly softer ride and give better strength in cornering. Since a vertical saucer shaped wheel would otherwise encounter greater stress, the wheels were slanted so that the lower spokes were vertical.




This is the start of a custom Prairie Schooner covered wagon. A descendant of the Conestoga, this wagon was used by the pioneers to transport their possessions westward. Named for its white canvas top, which at a distance made it resemble a sailing ship, the prairie schooner had a flat body and lower sides than the Conestoga wagon.










Kirby is restoring an original stagecoach running gear. This is an Abbot and Downing running gear #509 and is stamped by JG Chesley.












Wayne is applying striping to this custom hitch wagon. Traditionally hitch wagons were used commercially to carry merchandise and supplies, but currently they are more commonly used in shows and for advertising.










For more information on any of these types of vehicles follow the link below.

http://www.hansenwheel.com/products/hansen/index.html

Feel free to comment.