By Edwin Taylor
From the July 13,1994 edition of The New Castle Record
The ninth annual Craig County Wagon Train rolled into New Castle on Friday afternoon with a rattle and squeak and the clattering of hooves.
The wagon train was anticipated in New Castle between 1:30 and 2:30 p.m., but those patient enough to await its 3 p.m. arrival were rewarded to an impressive show of horse-drawn wagons and many riders on horse.
John Hunter, president of the Craig County Horseman’s Association, estimated there were about 75 riders making an appearance for Friday’s ride through town.
“It has been a big ride,” he said. “We’ve had about 85 to 90 people riding with us throughout the week.”
The wagon train assembled on July 3 and departed on their week-long journey on July 4. They travelled 20 miles to Craigs Creek Picnic Area in Oriskany to set up camp. From there, they made excursions throughout the week ranging as far as 15 miles.
A wagon train ride is not a simple affair. It takes a great deal of effort to work out the logistics of moving and supplying up to 80 people and horses on the trail for six days. This responsibility falls on the shoulders of the wagon master.
This year’s wagon master was Derwin Wilhelm. He has the formidable task of laying-out the trail, ensuring ample supplies of water and camp space were available for everyone, making sure the riders stayed together, caring for sick or crippled horses, and generally ensuring the well-being of everyone on the trip.
A week in the Craig County countryside provided fun family entertainment for Dennis Craft. He brought along a sister and his three children, ages 10 to 16. His girlfriend and her three children were also along for the ride.
Donald and Linda Griles made the trip from Randolph, Virginia, traveling over 140 miles to the event. They said the became interested in the trip after a friend of theirs has done it.
“We met a lot of nice people up here,” said Donald. “It’s beautiful country.”
“The wagon master got us through all the way,” said Linda.
The wagon train concluded its week with a horse (show) at the Craig County Fairgrounds on Saturday for members who participated in the ride for at least one day. A dance followed thte show with music provided by New Rebel Sky.
-Prepared by Shelly Koon
