Author Description

"Sheepwagon": A Home on wheels with an intriguing history, designed to house a sheepherder as he follows his flocks across the grasslands and mountains. A marvel of practicality and efficiency. But on a rare occasion, as I zoom down a highway, I spot the white top of a sheepwagon -- a lonely sentinel on the endless horizon -- and it fills my imagination.This photo-intensive book gives the history of the sheepwagon and the surrounding sheep business. Here are chapters on the early days of Western sheep-raising; the origins and manufacturing of sheepwagons; traditional sheepherders: their superstitions, customs and pastimes; women and families who lived in sheepwagons; the Basque influence; and modern-day herders, sheepwagons, and restorers. Author Weidel spent years interviewing sheepmen and women, sheepherders, wagon builders, and experts for this, the only book on the fascinating "first mobile home." The oblong book format complements the many photographs, most never before published.