“Sheep Wagon” is a part of the Capitol Avenue Bronze public art collection . . donated to the City of Cheyenne by private individuals, organizations or companies.

Wyoming sheep wagons, an iconic symbol of the state's rich history, have played a vital role in the region's history. James Candlish, a blacksmith from Rawlins, Wyoming, became the pioneer of sheep wagon manufacturing in 1884 after being inspired by a design created by sheep rancher George Ferris. While variations existed since each wagon was custom-made, they all shared the purpose of providing shepherds with a cozy living space while tending to their flocks.

Primarily constructed of wood, sheep wagons featured a stove, bed, storage compartments, and a small cooking area, offering essential amenities for the nomadic lifestyle. Initially, canvas roofs were used but were eventually replaced with more durable metal alternatives. Typically measuring about 12 feet in length and 6 ½ feet in width, these wagons were efficiently designed to maximize space utilization. They included a bed at the back, a stove on the right, storage options, and a fold-down table.

Equipped with sturdy wheels and a simple hitch system, Wyoming sheep wagons could be easily pulled by teams of horses, making them highly maneuverable across the rugged terrains of the state. Their rounded shape and sloping roofs were specifically engineered to withstand the strong winds and heavy snowfall characteristic of Wyoming's harsh winters. Their design provided a comfortable living space during their extended periods of tending to flocks.

Although sheep ranching in Wyoming did not achieve the same status as cattle ranching, many 19th-century Wyoming sheep ranchers found great success in the wool, lamb, and mutton business. Today, sheep wagons stand as a nostalgic symbol of the state's heritage, with some preserved in museums or repurposed for recreational use. Sheep wagons exemplify the resourcefulness and resilience of its early settlers, encapsulating the indomitable spirit and cultural legacy, while serving as a lasting reminder of Wyoming's rich heritage for future generations to appreciate and celebrate.

Fred Emerich, who donated the statue with his wife Keren, grew up on a cattle and sheep ranch. In 4-H and FFA, he showed sheep. The sheep wagon is in memory of his parents, Mary (Troastle) Emerich and Carl Emerich. The earliest reference to the Bar-44 brand in the Wyoming state Livestock Board Brand books is from 1940s. The Bar-44 brand was owned by Carl who transferred it to Fred in 1980. Fred still maintains the brand with Wyoming Livestock Board.

Fred remembers first seeing sheep wagons in the early 1950s. Warren Livestock (WLS) ran their bucks (Ram – Male Sheep) across the fence from his family’s ranch and his dad took him along when he visited that herder. Fred showed great interest in the sheep wagon and was invited to stay with in it for a couple days. His Dad agreed and Fred was in heaven – among sheep which he loved and staying with this old WLS herder. Fred and his wife Keren now have one on Capitol Avenue, but it is a bit smaller.

To learn more about the Capitol Avenue Bronze Project, visit this link . For more information about each artist, sponsoring a bronze, or becoming a donor/supporter at any level, please contact Harvey Deselms at Deselms Fine Art, located at 303 E. 17th Street Cheyenne. Email is [email protected] or call at 307 432 0606