Wheelwright
From carriages for the wealthy to farm wagons, ox carts, and even cannons, wheelwrights kept things rolling in the 18th century. Far more than just wheelmakers, they built entire vehicles, designing and assembling the complex structures needed to navigate rough terrain. Designed to withstand the stresses of unpaved roads, wheels were feats of sound engineering and careful craftsmanship. See how the wheelwright combines several types of wood, iron tires, and reinforcing bands to produce wheels and vehicles that are functional, elegant, and built to last.
Watch the Video
Wheelwrights made a lot more than just wheels! Master wheelwright Paul Zelesnikar and apprentice wheelwright Joseph Conley explain how this trade touched all levels of 18th-century society.
Wheelwright Apprenticeship
An apprentice supports the Education and Preservation Mission of Historic Trades and the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation by learning and demonstrating the hand skills required to manufacture traditional work of the colonial period.
FAQs
Read below to find the answers to some of our most common questions about the Wheelwright trade. Visit us onsite to learn more and discuss further.
Working Wood In The 18th Century
Learn More about woodworking first hand from Colonial Williamsburg tradespeople and guest experts.
Explore Historic Trades & Skills
The Historic Trades and Skills community at Colonial Williamsburg uses 18th-century tools and techniques to apprentice in and eventually master more than 20 historic trades and skills. These world-renowned experts not only make goods and provide services to the Historic Area, they also consult and produce for other cultural institutions around the world.
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Our donors are the reason we can continue to create an authentic, immersive 18th-century experience for our guests. Since we are not state or federally funded, we rely on your support to fulfill our mission. Give today and help us keep this special place alive.
