Clients

Following is a listing of Museums, Collector’s that have chosen Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop for their restoration/repair/construction or consultation and assessment needs.

Client List includes:

• Museums
• Cities and Historical Societies
• Theme Parks and Design Studios
• Public & Private Collections
• Additional Client List
• Testimonials

MUSEUMS:

LITTLETON HISTORY MUSEUM - “Doug, I thought you would like to see how we used the half wagon we purchased from you.” - Littleton, Colorado

GREAT PLATTE RIVER ARCHWAY - Kearney, Nebraska (since 2000); Construction of Conestoga wagon, Covered wagon, and Mormon Handcart- with finish techniques to appear worn and used. Our scope of work also included consulting with Design Co. to assure we were providing the right product and service, research on authentic aspects of displays and props, as well as the delivery and installation of the wagons and the handcart. We also supplied a large number of the period correct props for display throughout the museum.

BOOTH WESTERN ART MUSEUM - Cartersville, GA (since 2001); Restoration and Preservation of original 1865 Concord Stagecoach, with aged patina finish to replicate used and worn appearance. All authentic materials were used- but were antiqued to appear old. We also assisted in the installation of the coach in the museum and provided documentation (with photos) of the scope of the work. “In 2001, the Booth Art Museum purchased an original 1865 Concord Stagecoach for exhibit in our new museum. Our goal was for the vehicle to be restored to original, but used condition. After reviewing proposals from several firms, we chose Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop to complete the project. Hansen and staff were very sensitive to our wishes and consulted with our staff throughout the project, as well as assisted with installing the coach in the museum. We could not be more pleased with the result. Our coach is one of the highlights of our collection and a favorite with our visitors. I would highly recommend Hansen Wheel & Wagon to anyone who may have a need of their services.” -Seth Hopkins, Executive Director, Booth Western Art Museum

DAYS OF '76 MUSEUM - Deadwood, SD (since 1990); Evaluation and Assessment of value of Collection and cost to restore vehicles, Assessment of safety of vehicles to be used in annual parade, and restoration and preservation of original vehicles for museum exhibit, with full documentation (including photos) of the scope of the work. We also assisted with the delivery and installation of various vehicles after restoration. Those types of vehicles restored include Concord Buggy, Ore Wagon, Beer wagon, Band wagon, Stagecoach, and the construction of a new Mud wagon Coach for display and parade use.

SISKIYOU COUNTY MUSEUM - Vreka, CA (since 2003) Constructed authentic replica of immigrant's Prairie Schooner covered wagon- with antiqued finish to give aged appearance.

HENRY FORD MUSEUM & GREENFIELD VILLAGE - Dearborn, MI (since 1999); Consulting and Evaluation Services- Assessment of safety of vehicles used to transport visitors. Repair and restoration work on Omnibus and construction of authentic Delivery Wagon for daily use, and restoration of large Circus Wagon wheels. Provided new hitch equipment for use on working Greenfield Village. “Vehicles for Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop not only perform very well, but really give our visitors a taste of a past era. We have been very happy with the Express Wagon built for us by Hansen's in 1999.” - Chris Wilson, Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village.

STONYBROOK LONG ISLAND MUSEUM - Long Island, NY (since 2002); Restored original Birdsell Farm wagon for a museum display with finish techniques to appear worn and used. Wagon is completely outfitted with authentic trappings of a period correct covered wagon.

WELLS FARGO BANKS & MUSEUMS - San Francisco, CA & Minneapolis, MN (since 1999); Restoration and preservation of historic Abbott Downing Concord Coach #739 with antiqued finish, for display in Minneapolis Museum. Also constructed new freight bob sled with aged patina finish. We have built a number of replica Concord Coaches for Wells Fargo - for both museum display and for active use in parades and filming shoots.

DANISH-AMERICAN IMMIGRANT MUSEUM - Rebuil, Zutland, Denmark (since 1995); Research and construction of authentic replica Schooner style immigrant's wagon - completely outfitted with the period correct paraphernalia -and a variety of props for museum exhibit.

JOHNSON COUNTY MUSEUM OF HISTORY - Franklin, IN (since 2003); Wagon components and bows, canvas tops for covered wagons, barrels and props for interpretive museum display.

CHISHOLM TRAIL MUSEUM - Duncan, OK (since 2003); Completely outfitted authentic cowboy chuck wagon for interpretive center museum display. Delivery and installation into museum setting.

W.H. OVER MUSEUM - Vermillion, SD (since 2000); rebuilt antique wooden spoked car wheels.

FORT LARNED MUSEUM - Larned, KS (since 2002); Authentic replica wood-hub Army Ambulance wheels for museum exhibit.

SOUTH DAKOTA HERITAGE CENTER - Pierre, SD (since 1985); Complete restoration of original Governor's Landau coach, Immigrants Democrat Wagon, Albany Cutter, original Abbott-Downing Mud wagon stage, and original Farm Wagon for museum display. Construction of ship's wheel for river boat interactive exhibit. “Hansen Wheel Shop has restored a number of vehicles for the SD State Historical Society, including this elegant five-glass landau, an Albany cutter, and a Democrat Wagon. We entrusted Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop with these vehicles because we could rely on them for museum quality work.” - David Hartley, Museum Director

NORTH DAKOTA COWBOY HALL OF FAME - Starview Enterprises- Gackle, ND (since 2004); Original Newton Wagon with authentic cowboy camp props.

VOLKENING HERITAGE FARM - Schaumburg Park District, Schaumburg, IL (since 2003); Original Winona farm wagon for museum display.

OREGON TRAIL INTERPRETIVE CENTER - Baker City, OR (since 2002); Wagon components and parts, bows and brakes for museum exhibits.

Historical Societies and Historical Sites:

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CIVIL WAR ASSOCIATION - Chino, CA (since 2002); Replica Army Escort Wagon for reenactment use and display. “I contacted Doug Hansen for help in obtaining a wagon to resemble and 1860's US Army Transport wagon. The experience with Hansen's was great as they allowed me to reestablish and provide a piece of history that was missing up until now. Thank you Doug, and everyone at Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop, for all your professional experience and support.” - Gary Fradella, Southern California Civil War Assoc.

THE OCONTO COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY - The Oconto County Historical Society; “Thanks again for a great job! We were able to enter the restored water wagon in our local parade thanks to some wonderful new wheels you made for us. It was a great sight to see this wagon again on our streets.” - Karl Ballestad, Vice President

FORT ABRAHAM LINCOLN FOUNDATION - Mandan, ND (since 2004); New authentic Conestoga style six- mule wagon built with 1870's specifications, original style mortised joinery and hand-forged hardware.

IMPERIAL COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY - Imperial, CA (since 2002); Rebuilt antique heavy truck wheels, wooden components and vulcanized rubber tiring.

CITY OF KETCHUM - Ketchum, ID (since 2004); On site assessment of value and condition of large collection of vehicles and historic research on Freighter wagons to be used in annual parade. Complete documentation with photos.

OHIO HISTORICAL SOCIETY - FORT MEIGS - Columbus, OH (since 2004); Constructed authentic replica circa 1812 Howitzer cannon and limber for museum display.

ARIZONA HISTORICAL SOCIETY - Flagstaff Arizona (since 2004); Total restoration of original logging cart and 10 foot wheels.

OCONTO COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY - Oconto, WI (since 2005); Rebuilt wheels on original hub.

FORT LARAMIE NATIONAL HISTORICAL SOCIETY - Fort Laramie, WY (since 2004); Construction of authentic replica Mountain Howitzer cannon wheels.

FORT KING GEORGE HISTORICAL SITE - Darien, GA (since 2002); Authentic replica Prairie Howitzer wheels.

FORT SILL NATIONAL HISTORIC MONUMENT - Fort Sill, OK (since 2003); Authentic replica Prairie Howitzer cannon wheels.

FORT UNION NATIONAL MONUMENT - Watrous, NM (since 2004); Rebuilt authentic style wheels using original hubs. “Fort Union National Monument would like to thank you and your staff for the beautiful job on our new wagon wheels. They will be admired by many visitors over the coming years.” - Fort Union National Monument

MORMON HANDCART VISITORS CENTER - Alcova, WY (since 2002); Wagon components and parts, canvas wagon cover, barrels and props for museum display.

BLUE ISLAND PARK DISTRICT - Blue Island, IL (since 2003); Authentic replica cannon wheels.

NAVAL EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DIVISION - (since 2003); Authentic replica cannon carriage and wheels. “I would like to express my appreciation for the excellent quality of work and customer service provided by your company in the recent restoration of cannon wheels for the Naval Explosive Ordnance Division. The cannon wheels had deteriorated to the point that they were no longer usable and required a complete replacement. Our experience in dealing with your company has shown that: you initially submitted a very competitive bid & during the entire restoration period, you stayed with the agreed upon price; you provided our personnel with the necessary & accurate information to safely ship the wheels to your location; you established & maintained a reasonable time frame to complete the restoration of the wheels; and as an end result, you produced a quality product. The overall Command will benefit as a result of your company's professional performance. On behalf of the Naval EOD, please extend to your employees my personal congratulations for a job well done!” -D.M. Renwick, Captain, US Navy Command Officer

Theme Parks and Design Studios:

EXHIBIT CONCEPTS INCORPORATED - Vandalia, OH (since 2003); Construction of completely outfitted chuck wagon and large freight wagon, as well as a wide variety of period correct props for museum display.

SPLIT ROCK STUDIOS - Arden Hills, MN (since 2004); Construction of Prairie Schooner style covered wagon and the rear half of a covered wagon for interactive, interpretive center. We gave these wagons an antiqued patina finish to replicate the original wagons.

HUFFINES & ASSOCIATES - Dallas, TX (since 2003); Construction of Revolutionary French Iron 6# Gribeauval Cannon carriages and wheels. We also delivered these cannons and assisted with installation in facility.

Public & Private Collections:

WILLIAM MORRIS COLLECTION - Augusta, GA; Authentic replica 24-passenger Abbott-Downing Touring coach-(built from exact documentation of original Crawford House Hotel Coach in Stonybrook Museum, NY), Conestoga style covered wagon, and completely outfitted Chuck wagon for active use in horse drawn parades and for exhibit in private collection museum.

GRANT'S FARM COLLECTION - BUDWEISER – (since 2000) St. Louis, MO Consulting and Evaluation services- On-site assessment of authenticity and value of vehicles in collection, as well as safety assessment of those vehicles that are still in use. Authentic restoration work on several vehicles and repair and wheel work to other vehicles, making them operable. Full documentation, with photos, of the collection.

WILLIAM NIGG PRIVATE COLLECTION - Browns Valley, MN (since 1983) Restoration of various original vehicles for collection - Restoration of original Abbott-Downing Mud wagon coach, restoration of antique popcorn wagon. “I've had Hansen Wheel & Wagon restore for me since their early beginnings. Their work is exceptional and it has always been a pleasure working with Doug and his select crew. The evolution of this shop has been very interesting to watch, going from a small depot building to the top-of-the-line business that it is today. This couldn't have happened without many satisfied and repeat customers.” - Bill Nigg, West Browns, SD

Additional Clients:

The following are some customers who have chosen Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop to build their authentic horse drawn vehicles:

Testimonials:

Satisfied customers are the goal for every project. Below are a small sampling of the testimonials regarding the craftsmanship of Hansen Wheel and Wagon.

"The running gear made it here in great shape and on time. It looks absolutely great and obviously shows the superb workmanship and detail that you and your staff put into your projects. Of course I had the fortunate opportunity to see some of your other projects up close last spring so I knew what to expect.

I'm confident this coach will be around another 100 + years if it doesn't get abused in some way. Thanks for your part in helping us preserve this world wide symbol that recognizes the historic significance of Henry Wells, founder of our college and co-founder of the Wells Fargo Express Company."

“We could not be more pleased with the reproduction stagecoach crafted by Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop. The workmanship is stunning and is admired by colleagues and visitors alike. As a museum-quality piece, the coach convincingly helps bring to life our site's story of plank road stagecoach travel in the 1850's and 1860's.”

“Doug, your wheels turned out beautifully. I am impressed that there is hardly an 1/8” run-out on all four wheels. You are a master!”

“There are hardly words to express our appreciation for Doug's expertise in the authentic restoration of this special museum piece.”

“Fort Union National Monument would like to thank you and your staff for the beautiful job on our new wagon wheels. They will be admired by many visitors over the coming years. Thanks again!”

“In 2001, the Booth Western Art Museum purchased an original 1865 Concord style stagecoach for exhibition in our new museum. The coach is known as Abbott and Downing number 84. When purchased, the vehicle was disassembled, in the process of restored and had been painted primer gray. After reviewing proposals from several firms we chose Hanson Wheel and Wagon to complete the restoration project and assist with installing the coach in the museum. Our goal was for the vehicle to be restored to original but used condition, not "show room new." Mr. Hanson and his staff were very sensitive to our wishes and consulted with our staff throughout the project. We could not be more pleased with the result. Our coach is one of the highlights of our collection and a favorite with our visitors. I would highly recommend Hanson Wheel and Wagon to anyone who may have need of their services.”

“I received my wheel today and it is perfect! It is exactly what I had in mind. Thanks so much for answering all of my questions and picking out a great wheel.”

“I would like to express my appreciation for the excellent quality of work and customer service provided by your company in the recent restoration of cannon wheels for the Naval Explosive Ordnance Division. The cannon wheels had deteriorated to the point that they were no longer usable and required a complete replacement. The overall Command will benefit as a result of your company's professional performance. On behalf of the Naval EOD, please extend to your employees my personal congratulations for a job well done!”

“Our experience in dealing with your company has shown that: you initially submitted a very competitive bid and during the entire restoration period, you stayed with the agreed upon price; you provided our personnel with the necessary and accurate information to safely ship the wheels to your location; you established and maintained a reasonable time frame to complete the restoration of the wheels; and as an end result, you produced a quality product.”

“The importance of first class appearance and presentation is high in priority with Express Clydesdales. The Express show wagon, custom-designed and constructed by Hansen Wheel Wagon Shop, presents a style and character adding that special 'touch of class' that for with our magnificent hitch in competition, exhibition and special appearances. Hansen's attention to detail in their workmanship and design in re-creating the authenticity of era in their wagons is second to none.”

“We are completely satisfied with our Western Concord Coach built by Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop. The coach is an absolute work of art; the craftsmanship is unparalleled!! We expect many, many years of service and enjoyment from our coach, because of the superior quality workmanship.”

“The wagon canvas we purchased from you is excellent. It fit perfectly. Thank you and all the staff at Hansen Wheel & Wagon. What a ;leasure to work with such a great group of very knowledgeable and helpful professionals.”

“From our initial meeting with Doug Hansen, dealing with Hansen Wheel & Wagon has been the way every business transaction should be. Doug came to the table with creative ideas and input. Hansen Wheel & Wagon followed through with their commitment on meeting our very tough timetable and delivered a true masterpiece of a stagecoach, which we can all be proud of! I would highly recommend Doug and his team to anyone looking for a quality built product, delivered on time and as promised!!”

“We chose Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop to complete the restoration project on our original 1865 Abbott-Downing Coach. Mr Hansen and his staff were very sensitive to our wishes and consulted with our staff throughout the project. I would highly recommend Hansen Wheel & Wagon to anyone who may have a need of their services.”

“I've had Hansen Wheel & Wagon restore for me since their early beginnings. Their work is exceptional and it has always been a pleasure working with Doug and his select crew. The evolution of this shop has been very interesting to watch, going from a small depot building to the Top-of-the-Line business that it is today. This couldn't have happened without many satisfied and repeat customers.”

“Doug; the sheep wagon is great, and everyone that sees it can't say enough good about the looks and the workmanship. Our thanks to you and to all the folks at Hansen Wheel and Wagon who worked on the sheep wagon.”

“I contacted Doug Hansen for help in obtaining a wagon to resemble an 1860's US Army Transport Wagon. The experience with Hansen's was great as they allowed me to reestablish and provide a piece of history that was missing up until now. Thank you Doug, and everyone at Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop, for all your professional experience and support.”

“Hansen's... Thank you so much for using your talents on our Chuck wagon. The Thatcher wagon is truly a piece of art. You have exceeded our expectations.”

“We have 3 vehicles that were restored by Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop. We have used them for pleasure driving and in parades and have had many compliments where ever we have exhibited our vehicles.”

“It gives me great pleasure to be the owner of the Thatcher Sheep wagon, arguably the finest sheep wagon that I have ever heard of. Even the copper looks really neat in its current aged look.”

“Vehicles from Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop not only perform very well, but really give our visitors a taste of a past era. We have been very happy with the Express Wagon built for us by Hansen's in 1999.”

“Hansen Wheel Shop has restored a number of vehicles for the SD State Historical Society, including this elegant five-glass landau, an Albany cutter, and a Democrat wagon. We entrusted Hansen Wheel Shop with these vehicles because we knew we could rely on them for museum quality work.”

“We have been universally impressed by the quality of workmanship and attention to detail of the stagecoach you built for us. You have all been just so accommodating and pleasant to work with. I knew we had chosen the right company to build the coach when I saw how enthusiastic Doug was about getting every little detail as authentic as possible for an early eastern Concord coach, and building us precisely what we wanted. We had 256 riders for its premiere today, and all were very impressed by its beauty and comfort. It really gave our visitors a full body experience of life in the past! Thanks again

“We feel tremendous pride in owning a one-of-a-kind F.C. Austin Sprinkler Wagon that hasbeen restored to its original condition of more than a century ago. It is without question, that there is no wagon maker other than Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop that could have done the work to the exacting standards that we demanded on this historic piece. Your expertise, patience, and willingness to do the job right have set you above the rest. We will not hesitate to recommend you to other museum professionals who may be in need of your first rate services.” (Photo courtesy of Cynthia Holling-Morris)