222 Broad St / PO Box 710, Camden, SC 29020
803-432-9841
info@historiccamden.org
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    WHAT'S HAPPENING

    CONESTOGA WAGON

    The body of our Conestoga wagon was built in the late 1700’s. At Historic Camden the public doesn’t just get to see a real Conestoga Wagon but they can ride in it.

    WAGON RIDES SATURDAY MAY 13th

    You can go to the Smithsonian and look at one

    Or go to Historic Camden and ride in one!

    WHY DO WE DRIVE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROAD

    THREE WORDS, THE CONESTOGA WAGON: It was Conestoga wagons driving along the Great Wagon Road that began the custom of “driving” on the right-hand side of the road. Unlike a wagon today the driver didn’t ride in the wagon but rode on the left horse near the wagon referred to as the wheel horse.

    THE GREAT WAGON ROAD

    The Great Wagon Road was built on series of indigenous trails through the Great Appalachian Valley and played a key role in the settlement of the southern colonial frontier.  By the time of the American Revolution the Great Wagon Road was well-established and went from Philadelphia PA all the way to Augusta GA.

    THE CONESTOGA WAGON

    A unique heavy duty freight wagon called the Conestoga was built to handle the riggers of traveling the Great Wagon Road. It was named after the Conestoga Valley were the first wagons where built. The wagons had a curved water tight caulked bed, which prevent fright from tipping, shifting or getting wet when forging deep creeks and rivers.

    MAKE A DIFFERENCE

    The Historic Camden Foundation is not state or federally funded so we relay on individual donations. Even a small donation truly helps. So please send a gift and make a difference!