Staff Writer
July 19, 1959 was the first day of Caribou’s 100 Birthday Celebration. This day was highlighted by the arrival of the infamous covered wagon that had left Boston on its journey north, June 18.
This Conestoga Wagon traveled from Boston to Caribou in 1959, kicking off Caribou’s 100th Birthday Celebration. The wagon, now located on the grounds at the Caribou Historical Society Museum is in need of repairs so it might, once again, roll the streets of Caribou. Anyone wishing to take this project on should contact either a member of the Sesquicentennial Committee or the Caribou Historical Society. This photo is a reprint which was on display at the Caribou High School during the recent Celtic Celebration.
The Conestoga Wagon being of 1859 vintage, was drawn by teams of horses, which were rotated daily, trucked ahead for rest then changed once again. This routine was done during the entire trip of 450 miles. Each team of horses was able to travel from 18 to 22 miles a day and it took a total of 30 days for the trip which saw the wagon traveling through Massachusetts, New Hampshire and into Maine.
The lettering on the canvas covering of the wagon announced, “1859-1959 —Caribou Centennial A Century of Progress.”
This very wagon that made the trip 50 years ago is now located on the Caribou Historical Society compound just south of the city on Route 1. The wagon is in need of repair and should be sheltered from the elements, if it is to be preserved.
It has been discussed at a number of the ongoing Sesquicentennial Committee meetings, that it would be appreciated throughout the community if this Conestoga Wagon, with a history all of its own, could be available during Caribou’s 150th Birthday Celebration.
Any individual, organization or class could easily take on the project of repairing this historical wagon, once again allowing Caribou to enjoy another bit of history, plus anyone responsible for this endeavor would certainly gain the respect of the community as well as hold great pride in having contributed back to the citizens of Caribou.
The Caribou Historical Society has the land and the expertise necessary to take proper care of this significant part of Caribou’s History. To house this historical wagon, the Society proposes to build a 40-foot by 60-foot pole barn. Other pieces of historic equipment and machinery would also be sheltered in the structure. The anticipated pole barn will be located behind the perennial flower garden, currently located in back of the main museum building.
The cost to construct this building is estimated to be $35,000. Anyone wishing to donate toward this construction is encouraged to contact any one of the committee. Committee members include, Joe Bouchard at 498-6562; Bud Brewer at 498-2060; and Dennis Harris at 498-2556 or 455-8279.
Remember the covered wagon that originally made the trip from Boston to Caribou in 1959 needs to be repaired so everyone can enjoy seeing it during Caribou’s 150th Birthday Celebration.
Roll up your sleeves and get the Conestoga Wagon rolling once again. It’s Caribou 150th Birthday — be a part of it.
