ca. 1870
The mountain wagon was a passenger wagon used extensively in the Western states during the post Civil War period. They were equipped with two to four seats, and were built much like a spring wagon. Suspension was handled by thorough braces in some instances, through many of the late wagons employed springs, or a combination of the two and most were provided with a braking mechanism. Some were open, while others had standing tops to protect from wind and rain, and many had a baggage rack on the rear. They would also have a window on the front so the driver could drive with all sides covered.
The mountain wagon is very similar to such carriages as the jump seat wagon, the excursion wagon, and the spring wagon.
The mountain wagon on display here was acquired in May 1979 at the Martin Auction in Intercourse, Pennsylvania. It had to be almost completely restored by U.C. Sterquell. This particular wagon is believed to have been built around the turn of the twentieth century.