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 Hansen Takes Reins of New Organization
Contact: Jon Christensen 605-996-8754
LETCHER, SD – When it comes to experience with vehicles straight out of the Old West, few modern day enthusiasts have seen as much wheeled history as Doug Hansen and his team of craftsmen at Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop in Letcher, South Dakota. More than thirty years ago, Hansen started his business after applying his woodworking skills to the resurrection of a small horse drawn buggy. Today, his organization is both nationally and internationally acclaimed for their historically authentic reproductions, delicate restorations and detailed conservation work.
That passion for the legendary wheels of the west was recently affirmed as Hansen was appointed President of the newly-formed National Stagecoach and Freight Wagon Association. Headquartered in Virginia City, Montana, the organization is dedicated to profiling the rich legacy of the horse drawn vehicles primarily responsible for opening and sustaining the American West. “I’m privileged to be part of such an exciting organization,” said Hansen. “It’s a great group of folks and we’re looking forward to drawing attention to some of the most dramatic and treasured history of our nation.”
The group has plans to establish research committees to uncover more about the all-but-forgotten trails, vehicles, logistics, and associated industries. According to Hansen, there is no other member organization solely dedicated to the people, places and vehicles that were so vital to the growth of America and other nations. Perhaps equally notable, by providing a resource to explore the heritage of coaches and freight wagons, the group will simultaneously create a network where early vehicle enthusiasts can gather, exchange information and take part in historic events and activities.
It’s all a familiar process for Hansen. Just a few months ago, he joined several hundred participants in a reenactment of wagons and coaches traveling the legendary trail from Ft. Pierre to Deadwood, South Dakota. “We learned so much,” said Hansen. “We drove two vintage mud coaches and an original Studebaker freight wagon over the entire 200 mile trail. It was an incredible experience that few in today’s world have ever considered possible. We followed the same ruts left by the last coaches and wagons traveling these prairies over a century ago. We faced the same water crossings, hills and even challenges with weather. It not only taught us a great deal about the vehicles but, the logistics, animals, and overall experience as well.” Clearly, it left Hansen with a significant impression as he confirmed that the National Stagecoach and Freight Wagon Association would be looking for even more reenactment and trail driving opportunities.
More details on the National Stagecoach and Freight Wagon Association can be obtained by visiting their website at www.nsafwa.org or by writing them at P.O. Box 281, Virginia City, Montana 59755.
About Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop
Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop in Letcher, South Dakota is widely noted for its extensive knowledge of and experience with early horse drawn vehicles. Founded in 1978, the company specializes in bringing authentic wheeled history to life. Their commitment to old world quality and craftsmanship is matched only by a parallel passion for the American West. It’s a rare model of expertise that is consistently sought out by museums, collectors, ranches, businesses, and individuals throughout the world. Combined with a repository of original vehicle designs and catalogued specifications, Doug Hansen and his team are dedicated to sharing the spirit of yesterday with the dreams of tomorrow.
More information on the products and services of Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop as well as imagery of historic projects is available by visiting www.hansenwheel.com or calling 1-605-996-8754. |
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