Museum Wagons

Currently in Storage: Learn More Below About Our Authentic Wagon Collection!

Our authentic wagon collection offers a rare glimpse into the real tools and transportation methods that pioneers used during their journeys westward. Each wagon has been carefully preserved to showcase the craftsmanship, durability, and design that helped shape America's expansion. Although the collection is currently in storage, plans are underway to make these historic treasures available for public viewing in the future. Stay tuned for updates on how you can experience these incredible pieces of pioneer history.

Blue Conestoga

Estimated value $30,000.00

A timeless symbol of the American spirit, the Blue Conestoga is a true masterpiece of authenticity from the 1850s. With its gracefully slanted ends and towering wheels, it embodies the rugged journey across untamed lands. A masterpiece of authenticity and a rare treasure that continues to ignite the soul with every glance.

Blue Conestoga authentic covered wagon

Provenance

  • Authentic from the 1850's
  • 15 feet long, 4 feet wide, both ends slanted up
  • Wheels are 44 inches and 48 inches
  • Cover is reproduction cotton
  • From Wilkes-Barre, PA, brokered by Wagon Masters in O'Fallon, MO (now out of business)
  • Purchased by Friends for the NFTM in 1994 for $8,000.00

Includes

  • Ox yoke
  • Wagon jack (date of 1827 with name C. Maear punched in)
  • Original feed box

Green Prairie Schooner

Estimated value $10,000.00

With roots as genuine as the prairie winds, this Green Prairie Schooner — purchased with care by Friends of the NFTM in 1994 — carries a story in every weathered board and sun-warmed wheel, lovingly preserved and thoughtfully restored to honor its enduring spirit.

Green Prairie Schooner authentic covered wagon

Provenance

  • Purchased at Wagon Master in O'Fallon, January 1994 for $1,245.00 ($995 wagon + $250 delivery)
  • 10 feet long, wheels 42" and 47", sideboards 13" and 10"
  • Small area of dry rot in one wheel

Refurbishments by Werner Wagons

  • Running gear changed from circular hounds to wishbone type
  • New vertical and horizontal braces on bed sides
  • Ends slightly slanted for bow overhang; reproduction cotton cover
  • Antiquing process: roughed wood, ebony/umber/grey staining
  • Green box coat, red oxide wheels/undercarriage, umber stain finish

Replica Conestoga

Estimated value $14,000.00

A little wagon with a big heart, the Replica Conestoga stands proudly as a tribute to the past. Donated to the city in 2011, this smaller-than-life replica echoes the legacy of a wagon once owned by the Kansas State Historical Society. With its fresh canvas cover and history waiting to be told, it's the perfect blend of charm and adventure.

Replica Conestoga covered wagon

Provenance

  • Donated to the city in 2011
  • Replica of a wagon owned by the Kansas State Historical Society
  • Smallest of all 3 wagons — no measurement recorded
  • Cover is reproduction canvas
Painting of covered wagons leaving Independence, Missouri

Love history? So do we! Join us in supporting the National Frontier Trails Museum — and help keep the stories of America's pioneers alive for future generations.