When our youngest daughter was in elementary school, she once confessed to my wife, "Sometimes I think I think too much." It was comical to hear, and we've laughed about her introspection many times. Even so, I know exactly what she meant. Sometimes, we all can overthink challenges, decisions, experiences, and life in general. At other times, we're moving so fast, we just accept things at face value, rarely looking beyond the surface.
Here's a western example... when you see an old wagon on display, in a movie, or in a social media post, have you ever thought about its backstory? Who made it? When was it made? What was going on in the world at that time? Is it more (or less) than what it's claimed to be? Are any patented features on the old machine? What sets it apart from others? Why did someone want that brand or style over something different? Is it a lost part of the past that collectors are searching for? OR... do we casually view it as an antiquated and worthless relic with nothing special to offer? Most people seem to choose this second route, rarely giving it a momentary glance. But, what if the old set of wheels had a head-turning pedigree with a fast-track story like Secretariat, GoldenTempo, or some other Derby winner? What if we walk right by amazing history and never know it? Trust me, it happens on a regular basis! Some of it I've managed to come across before it was burnt, buried, or recycled. Some, I heard about too late. While not every set of old wheels can start amazing conversations, some do have that potential - whether it's recognized or not!
The stories behind the heavier western wagons and stages have always pushed me to know more. They're immersive. In other words, this heritage can pull a person into the depths of the Old West while unveiling a whole new world that's hard to escape.
Rain or shine, it will be perfect indoor weather for our early vehicle presentations for the Westport Historical Society in Kansas City as well as the American Chuck Wagon Association event in Granbury, Texas. Image Copyright © David E. Sneed, All Rights Reserved.
My wife looks at me incredulously every time this history comes up in conversations. In truth, the topic does rise to the top fairly often and she's regularly surprised at how I can weave it into a discussion. How's it possible? Because history is tied to everything and the more we know about the past, the easier it is to connect with the present and future. Whether it's a news story from a particular part of the country, an interstate sign pointing to a rural town, a supposed 'new' idea in transportation, a common saying or phrase with roots to the stagecoach and wagon era, or just a last name that mirrors a legendary builder from the past - it all reinforces the richness of our past, present, and future.
Yes, I realize the unique nature of this forensic fetish. However, it's fueled by the constant uncovering of even more scarce parts of our past. Science, collecting, math, marketing, treasure hunting, history, art, music, sports, construction, writing, investing, immigration, or just a passion for learning... it matters not what drives you. There are related stories connecting every subject to America's first transportation industry. Resist the temptation to follow the wide path, overlooking these throwbacks to yesterday. Far beyond mundane leftovers, they're anything but simple and the survivor sagas behind these pieces can bring the frontier to life.
I'll mention again that I'll be covering some of this rich heritage with several groups this summer (2026). In mid-July, I'm slated to be with the Westport Historical Society (and others) in Kansas City. Then, on August 14-15, 2026, I'm looking forward to a few more presentations with the American Chuck Wagon Association in Granbury, Texas. If you've never been to one of these interactive events, I can assure those in attendance that the programs are anything but dry. We have an entertaining time while getting up close and personal with the history that built the West. The background details and imagery in our Archives are largely UNKNOWN to the internet, so you'll see and hear things most never knew existed. As of this writing, we're just a few months away from these experiences. I'd encourage everyone to check the respective websites of both organizations and get registered soon.
I'll be on my own in Kansas City but there will be lots to cover and it will be a great time. In Texas, I'm fortunate to share the program with Doug Hansen of Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop and Glenn Moreland from Texas Cowboy Outfitters. Plus, Mark Day will be there with custom-made lariats, handcrafted wooden buckets, cowboy teepees, wagon covers, and a lot more. They've scheduled wheelwright demonstrations, restoration workshops, and a slew of vendors. We may even have a few of our limited edition 'Wheels' and 'Making Tracks' prints as well as the original 'Borrowed Time' wagon books available! These have been out of print for more than a decade and we still get requests for them. This will be a RARE opportunity to acquire a super-hard-to-get copy. So much is happening at this Texas event AND it's all indoors at the Granbury Convention Center - talk about perfect temps and incredible creature comforts! If the antique, wood-wheeled wagons on display aren't quite old enough for you, just a few minutes' drive from the Convention Center are the fossilized remains of dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, Texas. Truth is, we're hoping to squeeze in a visit there as well.
Image Courtesy Homer Robertson, American Chuck Wagon Association.
In the meantime, we're putting together multiple presentations to help others see what separates the Lookers, Fakers, and Real History Makers!
Have a great weekend (and if you haven't signed up for NOTIFICATIONS of these blogs and articles - here's your reminder. Just click the link at the top right-hand part of your screen),
David
Psalm 20:7