Wagons were a key part in the settling of America. Numerous races and regions used this necessary tool to expand and conquer new land. Throughout American History, wagons were heavily relied on and used until railroads were invented. Many people trusted wagons to carry their belongings and their items necessary for survival. There were two main types of wagons that were used in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Conestoga wagon was first used in the 18th century, and was widely popular until railroads were invented. The Conestoga wagon got its name because it originated in the Conestoga Creek region of Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, and Virginia used Conestoga wagons the most. These wagons were usually pulled by four to six Conestoga horses, and could hold 6 tons of supplies. Conestoga Wagons, also known as freight wagons, were designed to carry heavy loads. They had a curved floor to limit the shifting of supplies when travelling up and down hills. There were gates at the ends of the wagon to keep cargo from falling out. White canvas covered Conestoga wagons to protect freight from rain, snow, and other weather. The canvas was soaked in oil for water-proofing, then stretched over wooden rings.

Western Wagons were used in the 19th century and were important to western migration. Heavily used in California and Oregon, western …show more content…
The horses and oxen had to be taken care of very carefully in order to survive. The success of the trip depended on the animals. Drivers of the wagons had to be careful not to overwork or overuse the horses. There were also other animals along the trails that were threats to the American settlers. Wolves, bears, and coyotes were often killed for food. Although there were many harmless snakes in the west, rattlesnakes were dangerous. Their poisonous bite could kill people or animals if not treated