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T h e W e s t e r n C a n a d i a n W h e e l w r i g h t ’ s A s s o c i a t i o n S e r v i n g t h e i n t e r e s t s o f W h e e l w r i g h t s s i n c e 1 9 9 2 w w w . w c w a . c a
Volume 28, Issue 3 Winter 2020
W C W A J o i n s “ C o u n t r y K i c k b a c k D a y s ” a t H e r i t a g e P a r k
W E S T E R N C A N A D I A N W H E E L W R I G H T ’ S A S S O C I A T I O N
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PRESIDENT: John Lavoie Box 15 Wardlow, AB T0J 3M0 (403) 566-2448; 793-1366 (c) [email protected]
VICE PRESIDENT: Carl Swartz RR# 1, Blackie AB TOL OJO (403) 601-9946 [email protected]
SECRETARY: Kris Burkholder Box 2, Site 104, RR#3 Sundre, Alberta T0M 1X0 (403) 638-9310 [email protected]
TREASURER: Deb Corbett 7282 Dunwaters Drive Kelowna, BC V1Z 3W4 (250) 353-1259 [email protected]
B.C. DIRECTOR: Dwayne Danley 1853 Pleasant Valley Road Armstrong, BC V0E 1B2 (250) 546-9979 [email protected] ALBERTA DIRECTOR: Wayne Lenfesty Box 2, Site 104, RR #3 Sundre, Alberta T0M 1X0 (403) 638-9310; 586-0229 (c) [email protected]
SASKATCHEWAN DIRECTOR: Jean Lavoie Box 15, Wardlow, AB T0J 3M0 (403) 566-2448; 793-1366 (c) [email protected]
MANITOBA DIRECTOR: Brian Reynolds Box 338 Rapid City, Manitoba R0K 1W0 (204) 826-2120 [email protected]
ONTARIO DIRECTOR: Bonnie McCauley [email protected] EAST COAST DIRECTOR: VACANT
EUROPEAN DIRECTOR: Franck Calloch rue du grao 56590 ile de groix France 011 337 8606 5076 (c) [email protected]
U.S.A. DIRECTOR: Gary Stephenson 45 West High Street Ballston Spa, New York 12020 (518) 588-4397 [email protected]
PUBLISHING INFORMATIONThe Traveller is published three times annually, in February, June and October by and for the Western Canadian Wheelwright’s Association, Diana Matsuda, Editor. Submission deadlines are January 15, May 15 and September 15. Please submit Traveller correspondence or articles to:
The Traveller c/o Diana Matsuda
33 Farrell Drive, Parksville, BC V9P 2V4 Tel: (250) 228-3971
Email: [email protected]
To book advertising in The Traveller, or for WCWA correspondence, contact:
WCWA c/o Deb Corbett
7282 Dunwaters Drive Kelowna, BC V1Z 3W4
(250) 353-1259 Email: [email protected]
DISCLAIMER NOTICE
The Traveller makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, BUT the Executive Officers of the WCWA and the General Membership of the Association, including the Editor, specifically disclaim any responsibility or liability for damages or injuries as a result of any construction, design use or application of information contained in The Traveller. The end use of any information from this newsletter is solely at the user’s own risk.
CONTACT INFORMATION FOR YOURW.C.W.A EXECUTIVE
Table of Contents:Editor’s Comments .......................................... 3President’s Report ........................................... 3Treasurer’s Report ........................................... 4Directors’ Reports ......................................... 5-9 AGM 2020 ..................................................... 10The Costermonger’s Barrow .......................... 12Shop Talk ....................................................... 14Dr. Hub ........................................................... 15Tailgate Sales ................................................. 15
New Shop For Doc ......................................... 15The ‘R’ Files ................................................... 17The Trials of Display Wheels .......................... 24Rural Heritage Price Reduced ........................ 25Joke’s On Us ................................................... 25Wheelwright Advisors ................................... 26Advertising Rates ........................................... 26WCWA Membership Form ............................. 27AGM Registration Form ................................. 28
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EDITOR’S COMMENTSBy Diana Matsuda, Editor
For the champions of an ancient heritage trade, the Western Canadian Wheelwright’s Association is certainly embracing the digital age at an ever increasing rate. From website to Facebook page, followed by conversion of our printed newsletter to delivery online, this issue adds a new dimension to the sharing of information in the form of instructional videos.
In the Manitoba Report on page 7, Brian Reynolds has provided a couple of video clips to demonstrate some of the steps in re-building decorative wagon wheels in the “traditional” way. While it is one thing to read the description of a process and see static photographs, it is quite another to actually observe the process in action. This opens a whole new dimension to the sharing of knowledge and providing of training opportunities. I have always encouraged members to keep their cameras at hand when working on projects or attending events. Now I will have to suggest that you put your cameras onto the “record” mode and send some live action shots to share with your fellow members.
Also in this issue, I am delighted to welcome back our former UK Director, Alan Paulus, as an occasional Traveller contributor. Since his last report in February of 2016, Alan has sold his business and retired to become a full time wheelwright. In Alan’s words in a recent email, “Several years have now passed and I miss the WCWA and The Traveller so if you are open to it, I thought I would offer the occasional article if you’re interested”.
Of course I was thrilled to put Alan back on my list of Traveller contributors, no matter how occasional. He is always working on interesting projects, and offers innovative solutions along with historical perspectives from the other side of the pond. Alan has used YouTube for many years to demonstrate his craft, and readers will find much useful information on his YouTube channel – heritagecraft. In this issue of the newsletter, Alan tells us about his latest project, a “costermonger’s barrow” on page 12. Now that’s a term you don’t hear every day!
Well, we are now into our second month of 2020, and that means that we must get into [Continued page 4]
PRESIDENT’S REPORTBy John Lavoie, WCWA President
Happy New Year fellow wheelwrights and WCWA members! We hope that our membership will grow in the new decade, and I’d like to thank you all for prompt payment of your membership dues. I would like to believe that we are all doing well and have many projects on the go.
planning mode for the WCWA Annual General Meeting. The decision has been made to hold the AGM at Heritage Park Historical Village in Calgary on August 22 & 23. This promises to be an exciting meeting locale. Heritage Park is a dynamic and significant educational institution and tourist attraction, featuring exhibits and demonstrations, costumed interpreters, live performances and tours, all combining to tell the myriad of stories that make up the development of Western Canada. Mark your calendars now and start making plans to attend!
In closing, I would like to draw particular attention to the U.S. Director’s Report by Gary Stephenson on page 9 where he talks about the need for networking and the role of the WCWA newsletter in this endeavour. To this I say a hearty “hear hear”! The purpose of The Traveller is indeed to foster networking and the sharing of knowledge; however, if it is to accomplish this objective, it cannot work in a vacuum.
Advertising in The Traveller is extremely reasonable (see page 26 for rates) and has a very specific target market, i.e. wheelwrights. Why are more members not placing ads? Classified advertising through Tailgate Sales is free for members, yet few take advantage of this service.
Listings in Upcoming Events is very sparse, and yet there must be many activities going on all summer long that could be promoted through such a listing. And as for our Wheelwright Advisors, surely there must be more of you out there who would be willing to lend your expertise to a novice or even an experienced wheelwright trying to solve a particularly knotty problem.
So let’s take Gary’s advice and start using The Traveller in a more dynamic way so that you can, in his words “get more bang for your buck”!
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[President’s Report continued from page 3]
TREASURER’S REPORTBy Deb Corbett, WCWA Treasurer
Memberships for 2019 – 64 paid Memberships; 6 paid Family Memberships. For 2020 – 12 paid Memberships, 1 paid Family Membership, and for 2021 – 2 paid Memberships. Thanks to all who have paid their 2019 and 2020 memberships.
Since our last newsletter, we have only received 4 more paid memberships for 2019 and 9 for 2020. These figures are as of mid-February. Memberships are down considerably, so hoping this will stir those who have not paid their memberships to get on it and support their MOST FAVORITE ASSOCIATION.
Please see below the financials for our Year-End, December 31, 2019. If you wish detail on any of the accounts, please send me an email with your questions. Our bank balance as of January 31, 2020 is $3,500.04.
WCWA Income Statement:01/01/2019 to 12/31/2019
REVENUE Sales Revenue Newsletter Advertising 150.00 Website Advertising 20.00 Membership Fees 2,784.12 Donations 136.58 Fundraising Revenue 297.00 AGM Income 250.00 Print - Newsletter 84.50 Net Sales 3,722.20 TOTAL REVENUE 3,722.20
EXPENSE General & Administrative Expenses
It looks as if our 2020 AGM will be the third weekend in August (22 & 23) at Heritage Park in Calgary and that, as members, we will be doing a demonstration. Wayne Lenfesty has been in contact with staff there and it sounds very promising.
If anyone has any ideas for fundraising and for promoting the WCWA, please contact me, John Lavoie, or any of the Directors.
Newsletter Expenses 3,370.36 Fundraising Expense 45.00 Interest & Bank Charges 83.34 Office Supplies 205.75 Total General & Admin. Expenses 3,704.45 TOTAL EXPENSE 3,704.45
NET INCOME 17.75
WCWA Balance Sheet: As at 12/31/2019 ASSET Current Assets CIBC Southcentre 3,134.17 Total Cash 3,134.17 Accounts Receivable 1,175.00 Total Receivable 1,175.00 Total Current Assets 4,309.17
Inventory Assets Promotional Items - inventory -160.91 Total Inventory Assets -160.91 Capital Assets Office Furniture/Equipment 52.49 Net - Furniture/Equipment 52.49 Total Capital Assets 52.49
Other Non-Current AssetsComputer Software 887.22Total Other Non-Current Assets 887.22 TOTAL ASSET 5,087.97
LIABILITYCurrent LiabilitiesAccounts Payable 222.89Total Current Liabilities 222.89 TOTAL LIABILITY 222.89 EQUITYRetained EarningsRetained Earnings - Previous Year 4,847.33Current Earnings 17.75Total Retained Earnings 4,865.08 TOTAL EQUITY 4,865.08 LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 5,087.97
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BC DIRECTOR’S REPORTBy Dwayne Danley, BC Director
Hello everyone. Trying to find time to write this report between the 12” dumps of snow. I really hate shovelling. The snow on my tire setting table is 26” deep!
Shop work is surprisingly steady. I’ve just finished four buggy wheels and I’m about three-quarters the way through a buggy restoration. I’ve got a set of Hanson cab wheels, axel and springs to re-do, with several jobs pending.
I will soon have a new series of photos and text on a project I have been working on for a year and a half. It’s just about done so I can test the unit, but you’ll have to wait to see what it is!
I’d like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and all the best in 2020.
Hey all you in BC … call me with your ideas for the WCWA!
ALBERTA DIRECTOR’S REPORTBy Wayne Lenfesty, Alberta Director
Wow, it is 2020! I was just thinking the other day, wondering what the people living and working in 1920 would think if they saw the advancements in transportation wheels of today. One hundred years ago – that was about the time the horse and buggy era was coming to an end. The thing that has not changed is that the wheel is still round and is still probably the greatest invention ever made. We could not live as we do today without the wheel. It is everywhere we look. It has been re-designed with tougher materials and made to go faster and farther, as well as last longer. But they will never look as nice or replace the romanticism of the wooden-spoked wheels of the wagon and buggy era. We must keep the craft alive for future generations to enjoy and marvel at.
My shop has been fairly quiet this winter, but I did manage to construct one decorative wagon wheel for selling. I have a couple of projects on the go, sitting in the shop, but life gets in the way sometimes and the progress is slow.
The 2020 Annual General Meeting is planned for
August 22 & 23 at the Heritage Park Historical Village in Calgary, Canada’s largest living museum. With its theme “How the West was Once”, wheelwrighting fits right in and the Park will be a great place to demonstrate the craft.
The dates for our AGM coincide with “Country Kickback Days”, the annual show at Heritage Park which features demonstrations of all aspects of life on the farm back in the day. Threshing, baling, wheat grinding, blacksmithing, sheep shearing, spinning and much more happens during the weekend. You can view the venue on www.heritagepark.ca and see what they are all about. It will be a fun place to show off our passion of building wheels.
The Park typically draws 2500 to 3000 people each day during Country Kickback weekend. There are many motels available within a 10-minute drive and there is room for a few campers onsite.
We will keep everyone updated as the date gets closer, on both our website and Facebook group site. If you have not joined the Facebook group site, please do so. It is a great way to keep in touch and pass along information. And for now, please mark August 22 & 23 on your calendars and plan to join us in Calgary.
We are looking forward to hearing some innovative and exciting ideas on promoting the craft from our newly created Promotions and Communications Committee. As discussed at our last AGM, we need to have a pamphlet or brochure that can be handed out at events. I believe such a promotional tool will go a long way in promoting our Association and the craft. While demonstrating at an event, it is frustrating not to have some written material to hand out to spectators. Hopefully the Association can get something put together before the next AGM. It seems we all procrastinate, including me, and put things off until we get pushed.
The other item that was discussed at the last AGM was developing guidelines for wheelwright training courses. I have been lax in pursuing this initiative but I hope other directors/members have not forgotten about it. I believe it is essential to promote and pass on the craft to younger generations if it is to continue into the future. We need someone to step up and lead us all in that direction.
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[Alberta Director’s Report cont’d from page 5]Just a reminder to all members that we have WCWA banners and business cards available to anyone who needs them when showcasing our craft at events in their area. Please send me an email, or give me a phone call and I can send what you require.
That’s all for this time. Remember to pay your 2020 membership dues, and Happy Wheeling everyone.
SASKATCHEWAN DIRECTOR’S REPORTBy Jean Lavoie, Saskatchewan Director
Wow, another year has passed and it’s time to think about and plan for the AGM. As most of you are aware, this has been a tough year health wise at our house. It was August when I finally got my cancer diagnosis. To us, the diagnosis was a relief as we then had something to fight. The next step was the Tom Baker Cancer Centre in Calgary and the chemotherapy that saved my life. I did have a fall and broke my pelvis after my first chemo treatment which has slowed my activity somewhat, but in general I have done well and am feeling so much better. I want to thank all who sent along well wishes, prayers and good vibes. These contributed so very much to my recovery.
Having the AGM at different locations sounds like a great idea to me. Not much makes me happier than talking, teaching and learning all things wheelwright-related. Heritage Park has been suggested and will be great, but we as a Club will have to support this both financially and through our attendance. Please also keep in mind that we have an obligation to Pioneer Acres each August during their annual show for the space they have provided to us.
MANITOBA DIRECTOR’S REPORTBy Brian Reynolds, Manitoba Director
In the last edition of The Traveller, I discussed why I had changed my mind on building decorative wheels, so over the last few weeks, I have been building a pair of wagon wheels that had a strong sentimental attachment for the customer. I have built a lot of wagon wheels over the years so I did not anticipate any issues in rebuilding these; however, a few surprises did arise.
The customer wanted to retain all the original ironwork, tires and hub bands, and reuse them on the new wheels. Not a problem; all can be re-sized as required. But then I thought it would be a good exercise in wheelwrighting to keep the originals and size the hub and wheel to fit the steel, rather than the other way around. Seemed like a good idea at the time but I had no idea how much more time and effort this would take.
To add to the general confusion, they wanted the wheels built in the “traditional” way, an exact copy of how wheels were originally built. The first obstacle was the hubs. If I had to make new, generally I would laminate hardwood into suitable sized blocks and machine accordingly. But in this case, they wanted a solid block of hardwood. It is not easy to find carefully dried blocks these days, but as luck would have it, some years ago I was cutting some oak firewood that I salvaged from land clearance and some of the trunks were large enough to put to one side for possible use. I still had these which had been drying out for over five years. A few minutes with a chainsaw gave me the rough blocks, trimmed roughly round to fit in the lathe.
[Continued page 7]
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Buggy Builder’s BulletinA Trade Journal Serving the Horse-Drawn Vehicle Industry
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1-Year subscription: $25.00 (Canadians $30.00) U.S.(U.S. funds only, drawn on U.S. banks; Canadian money orders also accepted)
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Buggy Builder’s Bulletin5524 Barryville Rd.
Nashville, MI 49073Telephone: (517) 852-0671
[Continued page 8]
[Manitoba Report continued from page 6]After marking the approximate centre and scribing a circle on both ends, I was able to drill centre holes and set the block in the lathe.
Then came the fun part; it was quickly reduced to the required 10” diameter. To see a video clip of this process, click here. When finished watching, click the back arrow at the top left of the screen to return to the newsletter.
Once I had the rough block turned to size, it was straightforward to shape the hub blank and attach the dividing plate to index the mortises.
The outside diameter was sized so that the original hub bands would be a tight fit. Instead of sizing the steel bands to shrink on, I oversized the hub to give the same interference fit.
At this point, I like to install the hub bands to give the hub extra support. Cutting the mortises can induce or release stresses in the hub so the bands will give support and help to reduce cracking. This was especially important in this case as it was a solid block rather than a laminated block. Click here for a live action shot of the mortising process. Again, click the back arrow to return to the newsletter.
So far so good. Now all that remained was to set the hubs back in the lathe to bore the centre for the boxings.
I installed all the hub bands prior to pressing in the boxing as the tapered shape will tend to expand the hub into the rings, tightening them even further.
This did cause some minor cracking in the hub; however, I had expected some cracking given what this block of would-be firewood had been subjected to.
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[Manitoba Report continued from page 7]Then it came down to the simple matter of assembling the wheel, something we have all done many times. In this case, I took extra care in cutting the tenons on the spokes to arrive at the correct diameter of the felloes to fit the original tires. All went well until I got to the last spoke on the second wheel when the wheelwright gremlin decided to help proceedings. A loud crack announced the failure of the last spoke. Nothing to be done but to remove the felloe half and replace the spoke.
I finally got the two wheels assembled, ready to shrink on the tires. I have checked sizes, all looks OK; I am currently awaiting the completion of three other canon wheels so that I can shrink all the tires in one day.
It was an interesting exercise, another learning curve, but I now know that I can build a wheel in the traditional manner using the original ironwork, essentially restoring the wheel to its original new condition. I also learned that it is just as much work to build a decorative wheel as it is to build a working wheel; there are no shortcuts.
I always find it interesting to dismantle old wheels. There is nearly always a story to be told, hidden within the wheels … perhaps evidence of previous repairs or rebuilds, perhaps some nails hammered into strategic places just to get home with the wheel still on the wagon.
In the case of these particular wheels, there was evidence that the tires had been previously removed, heated and put in a tire shrinker to tighten them. If you look carefully at the photo below, you can see where the tire shrinker had bit into the metal and the thicker part of the tire where the metal had been compressed.
Generally I would not re-use this tire due to the corrosion, but in this case, the customer wanted the original tire installed. The marks on the tire evoke a picture of a blacksmith’s shop somewhere in a small town, just another day’s work to remove tires, shrink them and refit.
Would I build more? It is time consuming to do it this way, so I would only repeat this in special circumstances such as a requirement for a historically correct wheel; otherwise, I probably would not. In the meantime, back to rebuilding canon wheels which just seem to appear at regular intervals.
ONTARIO DIRECTOR’S REPORTBy Bonnie McCauley, Ontario Director
Dear Ontario Wheelwright enthusiasts:For those of you who might be wondering why someone from Alberta has taken on the role of Ontario Director, I’d like to tell you a bit about myself.
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U.S.A. DIRECTOR’S REPORTBy Gary Stephenson, U.S.A. Director
When I think of the WCWA, networking comes to mind. The main reason for this is the experience I had with my Museum of the Mountain Man sheep wagon project this last summer and fall. I inherited it from folks who had purchased the re-build project as a derelict wagon without wheels. They believed that wheels could easily be found to fit the wagon, something every wheelwright knows is a longshot due to the plethora of boxings/skein configurations out there.
Enter the WCWA and networking. Through the WCWA website, I put out the word looking for boxings that would fit the existing skeins. As a result, I heard from some folks I had previously known and others new to me. The upshot was that matching boxings could not be located. This led to discussions of “Plan B” to replace the axels
using skeins already having matching boxings. Through this discussion, we now have a path forward and a set of hardware donated to the Museum, thanks to member Mel Atkinson and his son.
My point in all this is that networking is very important in this trade, due to the uniqueness and scarcity of our materials as well as the specialized knowledge required. It follows then that this should be a major component of the WCWA mission. Networking is also a requirement to accomplish another major activity of the WCWA which is education and outreach. Without knowing where and when these opportunities present themselves, our individual members can’t follow through.
A necessary aspect of networking is formally sharing contact information amongst our members so folks can find one other. What can we do to make this happen? The next aspect is making available mechanisms to communicate. The newsletter is a fantastic resource for the WCWA mission and is truly what drew me to the Association in the first place. I think if we could expand on ads, tailgate sales, upcoming events and wheelwright advisors in a more dynamic way, we’d get even more bang for the buck.
Yes, we have Facebook, but I suspect there may be other ways to expand networking. Maybe an on-line Events Calendar so local members can attend or assist at shorter term events? Maybe an on-line Buy-Sell forum … a Help Needed forum?
We should be able to foster and structure these things by working within our existing media, but adding appropriate tools shouldn’t be out of scope. Bottom line is that if we can do a better job of fostering communication: text, voice and video, the better we will be able to network and further the mission of the WCWA.
Looking forward to seeing everyone, including more US members at this year’s AGM.
Old Fred had a very troublesome dog on the farm. It insisted on chasing people on horseback. After many complaints Fred had to do something, so he took the horse away from him. Joke Courtesy of Brian Reynolds, Manitoba
I am a farmer’s daughter, born and raised in Ottawa but also with ties to the country. Growing up, I visited uncles and aunts in the Prescott area where there were primarily dairy farmers. My dad, born in 1912 in Carleton County at Edwards, would talk to us about driving a team of horses, plowing fields, and picking potatoes. Those memories are rekindled by my involvement with the WCWA.
I’m enjoying my Introduction to Wheelwrighting, books I and II, and have been studying them in preparation for my first lesson on how to make a carriage wheel which will be held with Alberta Director Wayne Lenfesty on February 21. I have access to the woodshop where I work and skilled craftsmen who are ready to help out if needed.
I am new to this position but am ready to roll. Please feel free to contact me at (403) 370-3904 as I would love to know what wheelwrighting projects you are working on.
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AGM 2020 JOINS COUNTRY KICKBACK DAYSThere will be lots of excitement during the WCWA Annual General Meeting this year. The dates of August 22 and 23 have been chosen to coincide with Country Kickback Days at Heritage Park in Calgary.
This is an annual event where Western Canada’s rural history comes to life, attracting an estimated audience of 2500-3000 people over the two days. Not only will this venue give members an excellent opportunity to demonstrate and promote the wheelwright’s craft to an interested audience, but there will also be activities and demonstrations throughout the Park for everyone to enjoy.
Country Kickback Days consists of a weekend of programming that focuses on rural activities and history. Among the events will be slow tractor races, steam operated equipment displays and demonstrations, as well as threshing and baling demonstrations. There will be ice cream and butter making, rope making and barn board branding activities for the kids. The Park brings in a petting zoo, puts on a barn dance and last year they introduced a pie eating contest.
Another possible event that will undoubtedly be of interest to some of our members is the “sheep
to shawl competition”, where freshly sheared wool is spun and knit into a shawl in just five hours. This event was held last year and is likely to continue in 2020, although we have been advised by Heritage Park to wait for confirmation in the spring. Look for the schedule of events in the Summer Traveller.
Details on AGM-related activities for the weekend will appear in the June Traveller, but for now, mark those dates on your calendar – August 22 & 23 - so you won’t miss out on all the fun, learning opportunities and networking with your fellow members.
Better yet, why not send in your registration right now - the form is on page 28 of this issue.
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CLEAROUT PRICES - UNBEATABLE!!!40-50% OFF
Due to semi retirement from the wheelwright trade, I have a large inventory of parts to sell. These include:
• Spokes, Sarven - 700, all sizes
• Taper - 2600 all sizes (save up to $3.00 per spoke)
• Felloes - 70 of all sizes
• Many hubs CBSL, and also 3 sets of larger CB-2000 hubs, spindles, and bearings
• 38 and 52 felloes, the steel and rubber for these hitch wagon wheels
• Lots of miscellaneous parts that go with the trade, including bolts, spindles, axle clips, felloe plates, single trees, neck yokes, wooden buggy shafts and hardware, whip holders, wheel rollers and MORE
FOR SALE: $2,750 Completely rebuilt buggy, made of oak and hickory.
Hard rubber wheels.
Craig Gardiner Wheel and Buggy Shop76 Four Mile Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2N 4B9Phone: 204-391-4533 E-mail: [email protected]
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THE COSTERMONGER’S BARROWBy Alan Paulus, England
A traditional costermonger’s barrow
I’m sure many of us have used the long winter nights to stop and consider what improvements can be made in our lives; in my case, what I can do better to promote my wheelwright business. Last year, I took a stall at several country fairs which turned out to be great. I didn’t get any wheel work out of it, but I met a lot of folks, heard a lot of very funny stories about the wheelwrights of old, and sold several of my rocking garden benches. And slowly, my name gets about. Building on that for this year, I decided I needed to make a market cart to take with me. It would be a good example of my work, is easy to transport and could then be used to display some of my other goods, and you never know, I might find a customer.
So with the decision made, I needed to do some research to establish the design, and this is where the story starts.
I have never given market carts any thought before. I knew they existed but had never come across them. What I discovered was what I have to describe as a secret world of the market trader and market carts.
Imagine if you can, inner city Victorian London in the 1850s, slightly before Jack the Ripper but with the same famous place names such as Whitechapel and Bethnal Green, before the days of a supermarket on every corner and Amazon Prime. Food distribution was centred on a series of wholesale markets ... Smithfield for meat, Billingsgate for fish, and Covent Garden for fruit. The food then came down to a series of retail markets, many of which remain today.
A Ginger Beer Seller
A major part of the food distribution system was mobile food sellers, called costermongers. A coster is a derivation of costard, an ancient variety of apple. Originally selling their wares from a basket or trestle table, they would buy their goods from the wholesale markets and then go off to sell them, shouting out their wares at the top of their voice as they went. Think of the film Oliver, just not as squeaky clean. The need to transport larger quantities meant baskets and trestle tables were replaced by what developed into the costermonger’s barrow, a traditional style 2-wheel cart with a sloped front.
From these carts, the costermonger would sell all manner of goods, walking many miles in a day. These were plain utilitarian carts, 1.5 – 2 meters in length with a sloping front, usually painted green with red wheels. I have seen some very ornate versions of these carts but these tended to be later and were not everyday carts.
Inevitably the costermongers would find themselves congregating in certain areas which became the great markets of London, many of which remain, albeit a shadow of their former selves. [Continued page 13]
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[Costermonger’s Barrow cont’d from page 12] As the markets became more established, a four-wheel market cart emerged.
Market traders have always had a hand-to-mouth existence and it probably hasn’t changed; however, some traders did better than others. A few saved their money and moved up into bricks and mortar shops. Several of our major retail chains can trace their roots to market carts and a few became, for want of a better term, barrow masters. It would appear that each market would have a supplier of stalls that could be rented by the day from a local yard. These would be pulled out into the market in the morning and dragged back to the yard at the end of the day. As some markets could have 100 stalls, this was big business but, as I suspect due to the market traders natural inclination to avoid scrutiny, this was a secret world.
Each yard would be run by a family who would build and maintain their own carts, including the wheels. For example Spitalfields Market was supplied by the Hillier Brothers; Bethnal Green Market was and still is supplied by the Baker Family. The Hillier Brothers appear to have gone, and there is a very sad article on www.spitalfieldslife.com entitled “The Last Days at Hillier Brothers” (October 25, 2016) which documents their demise.
The design of the four-wheel market cart appears to be consistent from one market to another. They were about 2.1 meters in length x 1 meter
wide, complete with a removable canvas cover. Most were painted green with red wheels and, to differentiate between hirers, they would carve the family name on the wheels. All the wheels were iron shod supported by substantial leaf springs, designed to take a load and amazingly, many still exist. All were designed to be hand pulled and, whilst I have read about the use of donkeys, I can’t find any pictorial evidence or examples of horse/donkey-drawn barrows.
I recently went to visit both Bethnal Green and Roman Road Markets in East London, and you can still see plenty of the traditional four-wheeled stalls in use, admittedly some of which are past their best, interspersed with modern metal frame stalls.
Throughout history, there have been a number of attempts to eradicate the market traders and costermongers from London. Highly visible colourful characters with popular support, I suspect the term “loveable rogue” would sum them up. Markets became noisy lively places with displays of drunkenness, so not much has changed.
The stallholders frequently fell out with authority and the church. This came to a head in the 1870s in Bethnal Green where a Street Regulation Committee was formed by the local church to enforce a set of rules governing opening hours.
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[Costermonger’s Barrow cont’d from page 13] A paid inspector enforced these rules leading to much unrest, with stalls beings confiscated or destroyed. The stall holders organised and in 1888 the Bethnal Green Costermonger’s and Stall Keepers Society was formed, its primary aim being to fight these prosecutions.
They appealed to a noted philanthropist, The Earl of Shaftesbury, who supported them and managed to persuade the church to rescind the orders. I have seen a picture of a costermonger’s cart, some say purchased by, others say presented to “The Earl”.
The costermongers wore a traditional unofficial uniform consisting of a long waistcoat of sandy coloured corduroy with buttons of brass or mother-of-pearl often in swirly patterns, bell bottom trousers, and a silk neckerchief. In 1880, a man called Henry Croft took this a step further and declared himself the first Pearly King, the start of the famous cockney character known around the world.
After much consideration, I have decided to build a costermonger’s barrow. Originally I had decided on a market cart but in discussion with other wheelwrights, I am assured that the ornate version of costermonger’s cart is far more desirable. This will include the modern addition of a rubber tyre for the wheel as apparently shopping centres won’t accept steel rims. You never know, I might even sell a few.
You can follow how I get on by looking on Instagram at tom_green_craft or I may put some videos up on youtube – heritagecraft.
S h o p Ta l k
SANDBLASTING TIP By Randy Kirschner
If your sandblaster doesn’t seem to cut very well, it might be due to one of two things. Firstly, it may be because the sand or glass beads haven’t been changed in a while. They do wear down.
Secondly, it could be that the nozzle on the spray gun is worn out. I couldn’t find a replacement nozzle for mine so I had to order a new gun. The new gun and glass beads worked great, but even then, I found that the nozzle wore quickly. Parts don’t last forever under high pressure.
WHEN REBUILDING BOBSLEIGHS ...By Randy Kirschner
Wagon spokes make great stakes for the bolster and bunk, and they look good too!
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[Continued page 16]
NEW SHOP FOR DOCBy Chris “Doc” Jenson, Creston, BC
My move to Creston, British Columbia this past winter has not been without concern. In contemplating a move, my requirements were a large shop for my wheelwright equipment and an excellent sport complex. Both were located in Creston in early July.
We moved in mid-September and I was able to part with many of the personal vehicles I had repaired and/or built over the 20 years in my shop in Tees, Alberta.
I miss the relationships developed over the years with individuals with similar interests, and have many memories of a wonderful community. I am connecting with the local museum here in Creston and hope to conduct demonstrations this summer.
With Alberta’s Mirror & District Museum, I have left a freight wagon backed up to a boxcar, a
DANLEYCARRIAGE & WHEEL
• New & Used Parts• Wheels Built & Repaired• Hub Boring & Hub Making• Antique Auto Wheels Rebuilt• Courses in Wheelwrighting
Complete Buggy Restoration& Upholstery
Fenders & Dashes Stitched
DWAYNE DANLEY
1853 Pleasant Valley Road Armstrong, BC VOE 1B2
Tel: (250) 546-9979Email:
DR. HubDear Doc:At shows, you’ve mentioned making “a half mark” when marking out your felloes for spoke spacing. Please explain.Spaced
Dear Spaced:As we all know, spokes are evenly spaced around the wheel. I start from the center of the felloe and work my way toward each end. You must be careful to have your start point in the center of the felloe. When you have marked out the number of holes you need, ADD half the distance of a full space to the last hole.
For example: If your spacing is 8”, at the last hole add 4” beyond, but do not cut your felloe there. Cut at 4 ½” or 4¾”. This will give you lots of felloe to continue trimming to fit. The half marks will tell you how to even the space from side to side with NO guesswork as to the location of the felloe splice. Your spoke will be evenly spaced all the way around and your wheels will look a lot better as a result. Dr Hub
TAILGATE SALESWCWA members with items to sell or trade, or who are looking for specific tools or products, may send their ads to The Traveller Editor.
Wheelwrighting Books for SaleReasonable Prices. Check out the Buy, Sell and Trade Link on the WCWA website: www.wcwa.ca or contact Bruce Morrison: (250) 248-5914 or [email protected] For Sale - Quantity of new Rubber Tiring2” - 2 wire $6.00 per foot and 1” - 2 wire (flat top) 2.50 per foot Contact Vern Kemble (403) 560-6917 or [email protected] Doc’s Buggy Shop Opens in Creston BCContact Chris “Doc” Jenson at (403) 506-2474 or email [email protected]
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Continued page 17]
[New Shop for Doc continued from page 15] Democrat similar to the one used by the historic James Gadsby, numerous wood planes, a pit saw, and other related antiques that I had collected over the years. I had enjoyed working with community members to restore the 1895 church, and to paint the box car and caboose.
I also enjoyed supporting the wheelwright activity in Draft Horse Town during the Calgary Stampede and on the Pioneer Acres Show weekend. It was interesting to hold the AGM at a new location each year in August, and I will look forward to occasions to come back to Alberta. I will continue to make contributions to The Traveller and our WCWA website, and will be happy to share my knowledge as appropriate.
It will take time to develop interests here in the Creston area, but I have made a start by setting up my new shop as shown in the photos below.
This is the door to my shop so I will have no problem moving in items - even vehicles.
Editor’s Note: It is hard to believe that Chris has any spare hours, but somehow he has found the time to apply his creative talents to his hobby of antler carving. Shown is a sow grizzly and two cubs checking on something of concern. In his words: “This fills my time until I get my wheelwright activity going.”
The mother bear and her cubs are now on the wall looking to see what is being planned at my desk.
Next photo shows the antler on display. Note the carved paw print on the lower part of the antler.
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[New Shop for Doc continued from page 16]
For an idea of the size of these antlers, check out the photo below.
Do you miss seeing your copy of The Traveller in your mailbox? Printed copies can be requested for just $30 per year. Contact Treasurer Deb Corbett at: [email protected]
THE “R” FILESBy Jeremy Masterson, Head of Restoration Services, Remington Carriage Museum
As mentioned in previous articles, the Restoration Shop of the Remington Carriage Museum has been providing repair and restoration services to our local community and beyond for some 26 years. Over this time period, most of the vehicles we have worked on could be considered common to our area. These would include many piano box buggies and other light carriages, Democrats (aka spring wagons) and other farm wagons, Portland cutters, and a smattering of commercial wagons. Thus, when a client for whom we had previously restored a couple of light carriages offered us the rare opportunity to restore a fine coach, it provided us with a great deal of excitement and anticipation.
We have now begun the project and expect to take as long as eighteen months to two years to complete it. Beginning with this report, I will be providing progress updates along the way.
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[The “R” Files continued from page 17] The vehicle is a Road Coach sometimes referred to as a Royal Mail Coach or Park Drag, depending upon the era in which it was built and for what purpose. Constructed by Shanks Coachbuilders of London, England, the manuscript history the coach came with suggested a building date of 1839. If this is correct, the vehicle is now approximately 180 years old. This same history indicated that it had been built originally as a working passenger and mail coach, making the run from London to Lincoln in Lincolnshire. When its working days were over, it became the property of Captain William Smyth of Elkington Manor in Lincolnshire. In 1939, it was purchased by Sir Geoffrey Harmsworth of London, England and Moray Lodge in Louth, Lincolnshire, purportedly “… so it would not be knocked down cheaply under the hammer, to suffer a fate so awful that all its former drivers and passengers might be caused to roll over in their graves.”
Poetic rhetoric notwithstanding, it came to Canada in 1985 as part of an inheritance or gift from Sir Geoffrey. The recipient of the shipping
container, which was full of antique furniture and this coach, had to strip off the metal seat backs on the roof in order to fit the vehicle into his small, flat topped garage in an older neighbourhood in central Calgary. The coach sat there untouched for 32 years until our client found it in an estate sale. After a brief consultation with us, she purchased it with the intention of having it restored to like-new, usable condition. It is our client’s intent to hitch up her finest teams, load it up with friends and family, and take this fine vehicle on the road once more.
Our first assessment of the coach showed a vehicle in surprisingly good condition for its advertised age. It stood solidly on its wheels and was able to be transported to the Shop with little bother. As we began the process of researching its provenance and planning the restoration process, we assumed that it had been restored at least once in its lifetime and perhaps many more times. Now that we have begun the restoration, we are finding evidence that suggests the vehicle is in fact some 50 or 60 years younger than the stated 180 years.
[Continued page 19]
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[Continued page 20]
[The “R” Files continued from page 18]It may have been built for personal use as a Park Drag and has never undergone any major or even minor restorations. It is in fact completely original with the exception of a few extra coats of paint on the exterior.
This is our coach as it rolled into the Restoration Shop on its own wheels.
The Road Coach/Royal Mail Coach style of vehicle was constructed from the late 1700s through to the late 1840s when the growing British rail system took over the bulk of the mail and passenger business. Road Coaches continued to carry passengers on select routes not easily serviced by rail into the early 1900s, when they were then supplanted by motorized bus travel. The vehicle style was revived in the third quarter of the 1800s and into the 1900s as a high-end sporting vehicle for personal use – the Park Drag.
The Road/Mail Coaches were typically built for working and had relatively spartan interiors. As they were conscious of the need for carrying capacity and speed, they were built sturdily but often eschewed such heavy components as a braking system in order to save weight.
Park Drags, as built during the Coaching Revival era (1870s through the 1920s), were custom built-to-order following the Road Coach body style. They were essentially a high-end SUV of the day and were purchased by wealthy owners to transport large groups of people (as many as 12 on the roof seats and another 4-6 inside … with driver and coachman, these coaches could carry as many as 20 people and their luggage!) to sporting events or other purposes.
They were often elaborately outfitted with options like mahogany picnic cases full of fine china and crystal.
A similar coach in use at a sporting event in the early 1900s (Alamy stock photo)
Our vehicle showed a number of features that leaned more to the Park Drag model. It actually has three independent braking systems – a drag brake chain typical of the Park Drag style, a hand-operated brake mechanism that operates via shoes pressing on the forward surface of the rear wheels, and a foot pedal-operated mechanism that works against the rear surface of the rear wheels. The foot brake appears to have been added at a later date than the vehicle’s original construction. It also has a completely upholstered interior, including some nicely embroidered straps, ivory wear strips for the window lifts and other fine features.
We have now separated the body from the gear and have completely disassembled the undercarriage. Our findings continue to support a younger age than 180 years. The upholstery we removed shows all indications that it is in fact the original interior of the coach and shows little wear.
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[Continued page 21]
[The “R” Files continued from page 19]The now exposed body structure shows absolutely no evidence of any repairs, significant or otherwise. The points in the suspension that would typically show wear from miles of commercial use show almost negligible changes.
Thanks to information given to us by Robert Longstaff of Chadd’s Ford, Pa., we have found a serial number – 1471 – on the coach body and have verified it by finding the same number scrawled in pencil on the back panels behind the upholstered seat backs. We have also found the maker’s marks on the hub caps and door trims (Shanks – London), and a serial number (24522) as well as the maker’s name on the axle spindles.
A close-up of one of the coach’s hub caps with Shanks – London engraved into the brass center.
A close-up of the interior brass door trim with the builder’s name engraved.
The axle spindles show remarkably little wear on beautifully machined surfaces. The builder’s mark and a serial number are clearly visible.
Another clue to the vehicle’s provenance is the coat of arms emblazoned on the doors with the title “VENTURE” below it. The College of Arms in London, England was contacted to determine if the arms are simply something made up or if they are in fact genuine.
This coat of arms is emblazoned on both doors and has proven to represent the Smyth family of Lincolnshire.
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[The “R” Files continued from page 20]The results of their research was that the arms are indeed genuine and belong to the Smyth family of Elkington Manor, Lincolnshire, England and this supports the previously mentioned manuscript history. Further research has been done, resulting in contact with the Louth Museum and the Museum of Lincolnshire Life. Both have supplied evidence supporting the given history and filling in a few details.
One disturbing bit of information though is a document from the curator of the Museum of Lincolnshire Life, written in 1970, wherein he states that the vehicle dates back to 1824. This fits neither with the manuscript history nor my own conclusions based on the evidence at hand and other research I have done.
My thoughts were leaning to a build date of circa 1889, based on the condition of the vehicle, the Park Drag-like features, comparison of the vehicle’s serial number with others from the same builder with known provenance, the presence of linoleum that appears to be original to the manufacture of the vehicle (Linoleum was patented by a Scotsman in the late 1860s, and another Scotsman patented the process to manufacture it some 10 years later.), and the fact that the interior upholstery appears to be original as well. However, it is difficult to discount the curator’s testimony as he was 50 years and 4354 miles (7007 kilometers, for those who have gone metric) closer to the coach’s birth than I am.
A picture taken as our coach was accepted on loan from from Sir Geoffrey Harmsworth into the collection of the Museum of Lincolnshire Life in 1969.
I am thoroughly enjoying the process of refurbishing the undercarriage components. The process of disassembly and then stripping off
the dirt, rust and flaking paint is not my favourite pastime, but I am finding it intriguing and very rewarding to handle the various bits and pieces. The wooden components are beautifully made and have survived in almost new condition. Upon removing the many layers of paint, I am discovering pencil marks from the wheelwrights and woodworkers who made these pieces at least 130 years ago. On the hand-forged wrought iron parts, I am finding layout marks, file scratches and the strike marks (like a signature) of the principal blacksmith who built the coach. There is something special (to me anyway) to feel this close to these craftsmen of a bygone time.
Clearly visible under the flaking paint are pencil lines marked onto the spoke when it was being crafted by a wheelwright some 130 years ago. Other marks and lines are also visible when the paint is removed.
In this picture you can easily see the layout marks and file scratches from when the piece was made.
In the photo at the top of the following page, the initials – W and L – and the cloverleaf between, referred to as a strike mark, are essentially the signature of the principal blacksmith who crafted all the metal pieces on this coach. There were many hundreds of items.
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[Continued page 23]
[The “R” Files continued from page 21]
As mentioned earlier, the coach rolled into the Shop on its own wheels which appeared to be in surprisingly good condition considering they had spent some 32 years in an unheated garage, experiencing Calgary’s dry climate and temperature swings. They have dried out some during the time the coach has been in our Shop; however, upon close inspection, I have had to make the decision to replace the felloes and spokes on the front wheels. The original pieces were in very good condition but both front wheels had been rebuilt a few times and, not only were they undersized (35” instead of 38”), they were almost a full inch different in diameter left to right. I felt that to rebuild them once more to tighten them up and then to bring them both to the same size would result in too much wood loss in the felloes.
The original felloes were constructed in English elm. I have made the new felloes from quarter-sawn white oak as that is what is available to me. I have made the new spokes from white oak, the same material that was used in the original spokes. The elm hubs are in good condition and, after cleaning them up on the lathe and resetting the hub bands, they will be re-used. The original Royal Mail pattern boxings and spindles are in excellent condition and will need no attention. I have not yet disassembled the rear wheels but I am almost positive that I will be able to rebuild them using all their original components.
The new spokes for the front wheels are being made to match the original style. These are somewhat different from the typical North American style of spoke in that they have a much more teardrop cross-section, coming to a rather pronounced point on the outboard edge of the spoke. As their shape and size are not an
off-the-shelf item that could be purchased from our regular suppliers, they have to be custom-made. In the past, the Shop would have engaged a supplier like Witmer Coach to provide the custom-made spokes at a considerable cost (as compared to off-the-shelf items), but this time I elected to make them in-house. I have purchased a device commonly referred to as a gunstock replicator or carving duplicator.
There are plans available on YouTube and other sources for building one of these replicators using easily available materials, but I elected to save time by purchasing mine from Carvermaster in New Mexico. (www.carvermaster.com). There are more sophisticated devices available but this seemed to be the best for the money. I have found it to be very serviceable and, using my own router, I have duplicated the original spokes quite easily.
I know that Brian Reynolds and I have both had as projects the rebuilding of WW I artillery wheels. The spokes for these wheels could quite easily be duplicated with this device. I foresee other uses for it as well, such as copying parts to make casting patterns or even duplicating wooden airplane propellers (if the need ever arises). Although I cannot let the device leave the building, I am willing to let members of the WCWA have access to it for their own use in exchange for some volunteer time here in the Shop.
Kent Hansen, a volunteer at the Shop, uses the Carvermaster device to copy an original spoke in white oak.
The metal parts of the coach have to varying degrees suffered pitting, as well as the more commonly seen surface rust. On some pieces the pitting is quite severe.
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[Continued page 24]
[The “R” Files continued from page 22]I presume it has to do with imperfections in the wrought iron itself that has produced this condition.
The pitting in many of the wrought iron pieces was severe.
After sandblasting (I use glass bead as the blasting media), I had to make a decision as to what would be done about the surface quality for refinishing. Most of the parts are large enough that surface grinding and polishing to remove the pitting could be done, but I was concerned with the loss of material and potential for affecting the fit of the various pieces upon reassembly. The original manufacturing marks, as previously mentioned, would also be lost with this kind of grinding.
My choice was to use an epoxy filler made from West System resin and their Low Density Fairing additive #407. Mixed to a heavy paste (think peanut butter), I applied it to the bare metal where it was pitted or otherwise not smooth.
Metal piece with the epoxy “peanut butter” filling the surface imperfections.
Once cured (24 hours), I sanded the filled metal with 150 grit sand paper. Using paper this fine ensured that the epoxy was reduced, but the 150
grit paper would have little effect on the metal substrate. After sanding, I applied by spray an epoxy primer that is specifically formulated for metal in less than perfect condition. (Cloverdale Paints Prep-Tech Epoxy Penetrating Sealer #83020). This was followed by another Cloverdale product for metal, Rustex Primer #71024. Two to three coats of Rustex were applied, with spot filling and sanding between coats. The filler used on the Rustex is a one-part, fast drying spot filler/glaze from the automotive painting world.
The automotive style spot filler applied to the primed metal surface.
The wooden parts have been stripped using a chemical stripper (Heirloom Furniture Stripper from Home Hardware). After a careful assessment of the bare parts for needed repairs or major defects, it was found that there was only a minor crack in the reach and a few divots to repair which is quite amazing considering the vehicle’s age.
The crack was epoxied and clamped; the divots were filled with the same epoxy putty as used
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[The ‘R’ Files continued from page 23]
[Continued page 25]
THE TRIALS OF DISPLAY WHEELSBy Chris Jenson, Creston. BC
I had a set of four wheels dropped off at my shop from a unit that was on display at a car dealership and supposedly used in an annual parade. From the pictures, you will note that the hubs were made using synthetic materials.
Over the years, the spokes had become loose in the hubs. This resulted in wear of the tenons in the hub and as you can see wear in the hubs.
on the metal components. After sanding, the parts were then primed with Cloverdale Primer #15130. Two to three coats of this primer were applied, with sanding and spot filling between coats using the same filler as with the Rustex. Once satisfied that the surfaces were smooth enough, top coat enamel was applied.
For the colour top coats, I am using Cloverdale Paints Marine Enamel #111** series. All of the parts, wood and metal, will receive two to three coats of colour before re-assembly. Once complete, the entire assembly will get two to three more coats of the marine enamel.
I am hoping to complete the rebuilding of the wheels and reassembly of the gear this spring and will then tackle the body of the coach. I will update my progress in future editions of The Traveller.
Photo shows loose fitting spoke tenons due to wear of wood and material in hub.
The more one examined the wheels, it became apparent that they had been made by individuals using their knowledge as it related to a body shop, not as a wheelwright! The owners were hoping for reconstruction with new spokes and felloes.
The holes in the material in the hubs were worn to a point where oversized spokes would have to be dressed to fit tightly.
As these wheels were to go back on a display unit, I replaced one broken spoke, inserted wedges and poured in Titebond 3 to tighten up the tenons and align the wheel. The steel tyre was cut, re-welded and fired back on.
Photo shows the droop of tyre and felloe. There is a bolt between the ends of the felloes and the leather spacers.
Space between felloe ends
Reminder - Memberships are Due Easy payment: [email protected]
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[Trials of Display Wheels cont’d from page 24]
RURAL HERITAGE PRICE REDUCEDRural Heritage has recently found a better deal on shipping magazines to Canada and is passing on their savings to Canadian subscribers!
The price has now been reduced by 20%, making a year’s subscription, delivered to your mailbox, only $45.95 and that includes a digital subscription.
Be sure to include your email if you would like the digital edition as well. You will immediately have access to all past issues dating back to 2011.To take advantage of this offer, go to www.ruralheritage.com or call 1-877-647-2452.
Makeshift felloe plates
The wood portions of the wheels were treated several times with stain and a boiled linseed oil and turpentine mix. They left my shop looking good for display in the dealership, but suitable for very little use.
After the heavy summer rains, I received word that the unit had sat outside in a five day rain and some of the wedges were loosened. They probably should jack up the unit, try to get the wheels to run true, and use body filler or a similar product to fill in the space between the spoke tenons and the fabricated hub.
If such wheels are presented to you, I would suggest that they be sent back to the fabricator who obviously failed to understand the basics of construction.
SAVE ON FEES AND POSTAGE In an effort to make membership payments simpler and more convenient, the WCWA bank account has been set up to receive e-transfers. Send payment to our Treasurer at her email: [email protected]
JOKE’S ON US!Submitted By Brian Reynolds, Manitoba
Old Sam was in dire need of a new wagon. His old one was literally falling apart and had been repaired so many times that it was more nails than wood. He went to the local wagon dealer, determined to make the best possible deal.
When the very eager salesman approached to ask what he was looking for, Sam enlightened him. He wanted a new wagon, state of the art, rubber tires, ball bearing wheels, brakes, upholstered seat, the box made of hardwood, but most important, it must be no more than $200.
Well sir, said the salesman, we have this fine wagon here that has all of the attributes you mentioned; plus, if you conclude a deal today, we will include a free horse, all for a price of $190. Wow said Sam, you must be joking! Well, yes said the salesman, but you started it.
WCWA AGM at Heritage Park August 22-23, 2020
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T h e Tr a v e l l e r ADVERTISING RATESWhat better way to get your message directly to the audience most likely to be in the market for your
goods and services, and at a price that can’t be beat. Check out The Traveller Advertising rates:
Full Page Half Page Quarter Page Eighth Page Business Card$20 per issue $15 per issue $10 per issue $7 per issue $5 per issue$40 per year $30 per year $20 per year $14 per year $10 per year
To advertise or to renew your existing advertisement, please contact Deb Corbett:
WCWA Advertising 7282 Dunwaters Drive Kelowna, BC V1Z 3W4
Telephone: (250) 353-1259
WCWA WHEELWRIGHT ADVISORSAt one time or another, most of us have come up against a problem that really has us stumped. At such times, we can benefit from talking with someone who has lots of experience; a problem solver. Some of our most experienced WCWA members have agreed to share their expertise and their names and contact information are listed below. If you have a problem, don’t hesitate to share it with one of these experts!
Everette Burkholder (540) 879-9260Burkholder Buggy Shop795 Mason Street, Dayton, VA 22821Field Editor “The Buggy Builder’s Bulletin”
Dwayne Danley (250) 546-9979Danley Carriage & Wheel1853 Pleasant Valley RoadArmstrong, BC V0E 1B2E-mail: [email protected] Wheelwrighting; Hub Making andUpholstery
Doug Hansen (605) 996-8754Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop40979 - 245 Street, Letcher, SD 57359 USAE-mail: [email protected] Wheelwrighting
Randy Kirschner (250) 262-9547Rafter K Wheelwright (www.rafterk.ca)Box 303, Charlie Lake, BC V0C 1H0E-mail: [email protected] Wheelwrighting; Buggies & Sleighs
Brian Reynolds (204) 826-2120Machining, Welding, FabricatingBox 338, Rapid City, Manitoba R0K 1W0E-mail: [email protected]
Bill Twigg (208) 882-2445Moscow Carriage Company3428 Lenvill Road, Moscow, Idaho 83843 USAE-mail: [email protected] Wheelwrighting; Carriage Building; Hub Manufacture
The WCWA is always looking for Advisors willing to share their knowledge and skills with fellow members. Please let us know if you would like to join the list and support the advancement of the trade. Contact the Editor at [email protected] to request that your name be added.
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Western Canadian Wheelwright’s AssociationMembership Renewal and New Membership Form
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Date of Application: MONTH DAY YEAR
New Membership: Family Membership: Renewal: Name: LAST NAME GIVEN NAME
Company Name: IF APPLICABLE
Home Address: Business Address: SAME AS HOME OR:
STREET/AVENUE NUMBER & NAME OR P.O. BOX NO. STREET/AVENUE NUMBER & NAME OR P.O. BOX NO.
CITY/TOWN/VILLAGE CITY/TOWN/VILLAGE
PROVINCE/STATE POSTAL/ZIP CODE COUNTRY PROVINCE/STATE POSTAL/ZIP CODE COUNTRY
Telephone: (Please include access codes if applicable)
Home: Business: Cell Phone:
ACCESS AREA TELEPHONE ACCESS AREA TELEPHONE ACCESS AREA TELEPHONE CODE CODE NUMBER CODE CODE NUMBER CODE CODE NUMBER
Fax: (Please include access codes if applicable)
Home: Business: Email Address:
ACCESS AREA TELEPHONE ACCESS AREA TELEPHONE CODE CODE NUMBER CODE CODE NUMBER Website Address:
Please notify the Treasurer if you do not wish your name to appear as part
of the WCWA membership list in the Traveller newsletter.
Annual Membership is $45; Family Membership is $65. Please send your completed WCWAapplication, with cheque or money order to Deb Corbett, Treasurer at:
7282 Dunwaters Drive, Kelowna, BC V1Z 3W4 CANADAor e-tsf to [email protected]
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2020 W.C.W.A CONFERENCE & AGMAugust 22-23 , Heritage Park, Calgary, Alberta
Cost of registration: Participants: $20; Spouses: $10; Children: Free
[Please fill this form out carefully, printing clearly or using a checkmark where appropriate]
Please put me down for Adults Children
Number of Children in each age group: 0-11 12-18
NAME: SPOUSE:
PLEASE PRINT SIGNED:
USUAL SIGNATURE
ADDRESS: STREET OR P.O. BOX # CITY/TOWN
PROVINCE/STATE POSTAL/ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE: ( ) FAX: ( )
EMAIL ADDRESS:
FOR REGISTRATION CREW’S INFORMATION ONLY:
REGISTERED: By Mail Friday evening Saturday morning Later
PAID BY: Cheque [Chq.# ] Money order Cash
IN THE AMOUNT OF: $ Registration for Participants
NUMBER IN PARTY: Spouse Children (aged 12-18) Children under 12
PLEASE MAKE OUT YOUR CHEQUE OR MONEY ORDER TO THEWESTERN CANADIAN WHEELWRIGHT’S ASSOCIATION OR W.C.W.A AND MAIL TO:
Deb CorbettWCWA Treasurer
7282 Dunwaters DriveKelowna, British Columbia
V1Z 3W4 CANADA
