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For the most part, the westward expansion of the United States was achieved with a standard farm wagon, fitted with a canvas cover. However, the Conestoga wagon was a more sturdy wagon, built to carry loads up to 8 tons (7 metric tons), with an upwardly-curved floor to prevent cargo-shift. When caulked, they could easily and safely Ford rivers, keeping contents dry. They gained popularity in colonial America after The Revolution, helping to open up commerce to Pittsburgh and Ohio.

See more information at the related Wikipedia link listed below:

P.s: Turns out, Ben Franklin ordered 150 of them to assist the Continental Army in the defeat of the British at Fort Duquesne in 1775.

See the Explore Pennsylvania Historylink below:

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11y ago

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