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Colonial Wheelwright _____________________________________________________ |
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Wheelwrights were the men who made wheels for riding chairs, carriages, and wagons. Wood was used to make the wheels and an iron ring was placed around the outside to bind it. The wheels had to be strong and sturdy because the colonial roads were very rugged. It was important that the wheels were round and precise measuring was necessary. The wheelwright would work closely with the blacksmith who would supply him with the big hoop of iron that would fit around the wood. The wheelwright would heat the iron tire so it would expand big enough to go around the spokes and then pour water on the iron which would cause it to shrink just a bit to make a perfect fit. |
Wheelwrights made wheels for wagons. |
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 A wheelwright at work making a new wheel. |
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Created by Laura, and Leora
Solomon Schechter Day School June 2006 |
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