A fine wagon made by Ortons of Burton on Trent circa 1920 (later Orton & Spooner), with a fairly comprehensive history from new. It was built for a gypsy family who had it until the 1970s when Roger Daltry of The Who fame purchased it from the family. This coincided with some significant restoration by Alistair Campbell with some murals by John Pocket. After a few more owners, it has been with the present owner for the past 5 years.
It has recently suffered significant water damage, particularly to the roof. We are currently attempting to dry his out before a full evaluation of the damage can be confirmed. The wagon features in John Barker’s “Romany Relics, The Final Wagon Album” pp268-9. This includes a picture of the wagon at the time it was restored featured above.
Measurements
Height N/A Deck height 4 ft 6 ins (137cm)
Width Overall 6ft 3ins (191cm) at dray, flaring out towards roof.
Length 10 ft 6 ins plus deck etc
Wheels are;
Front 43 ins dia, 12 spoke
Rear 48 ins dia, 14 spoke
The american author Mark Twain is attributed with the observation that although some people say they like winter, what they really mean to say is they like being proof against winter. A hot stove in a wagon on a cold winter's day being ideal proof.