Chuck's Party Wagon
Back in the early 80’s, my Dad purchased three sets of running gear to be used for either grain or hay wagons. One of these was converted into what would become his prized hay wagon. Over the years it was used when putting up straw from winter wheat, but once he sold the dairy cows, would lend it to friends that ultimately didn’t care for it like he would. After years of wear he decided, he would tuck it away for safe keeping.
Up until about five or six years ago it was only used for storage in the corner of a barn. He decided it was time to rebuild the floor and spruce it up. Once built, it remained as furniture storage, but it was shiny and new; and his prized hay wagon stood tall and sturdy.
I’m a little fuzzy on the details how the next part of the story goes, but my son, Andrew and brother Jeff started dreaming about revamping the wagon and using it in a whole new light; for my son’s upcoming wedding. They dreamed of using the wagon to transport wedding guests from the reception to the after- party and POOF…..just like that, the idea was born.
They also needed a tractor to pull the wagon which is how Andrew became the new owner of the 1948 John Deer “A” he purchased from my brother. They not only had the wagon to get ready, they also had the “A” to get running in tip-top shape; and so, the project began.
Even though my Dad rebuilt the floor of the wagon, there was a lot of work to make it wedding worthy and safe for hauling guests. The number of hours and dollars that went into both the wagon and tractor are probably too many to count, but the joy each of them experienced, showed on their faces and the excitement in their voices each time they spoke and planned about the prized hay wagon.
They wanted the wagon to be safe for the passengers and added sturdy sides, was well-lit for traffic and completely awesome with rope lighting, fold-down staircase, temporary sound system and hand-made metal and wood signage that gave honor to my Dad’s name. To make the ride comfortable for the passengers, hay bales and assorted blankets lined the wagon. Using the wagon and tractor on the road was no easy feat. Andrew had to coordinate with the city, mayor, local police and wedding venue. Eventually, the i’s were dotted, the t’s were crossed, and the A-OK was given……WOO to the HOO!
I hadn’t seen the completed wagon until the morning of the wedding. As I pulled into the venue it was positioned on the hill, in front of the big oak tree and river directly behind. Tears immediately fell, my throat closed, and I couldn’t utter a word. The John Deere “A” and prized hay wagon stood majestic against the blue summer sky, pillowy white clouds, green grass, and tall oaks. Even though my Dad would only be with us in spirit, I could feel him all around and knew the life-long farmer would be proud of his son and grandson.
The wedding and reception were both happy and wonderful, the day was heartfelt and personal, but it couldn’t have ended more perfect than having Chuck’s Party Wagon carry the bride and groom, wedding party, parents and friends away from the venue, along the country roads and through the town. The ride itself was a celebration and I wouldn’t have missed it for anything and I’m pretty sure, neither would Chuck.
xoxox…..Sheryl
PS….the next day, pictures of the wagon ride aftermath were hilarious; a good time was had by all. It was decided the family would continue the tradition and host a yearly ride around the farm, in honor of Chuck and his prized hay wagon.