NOW SOLD

Original Thomas Tong
Ledge Waggon
Circa 1898

A nice original example, confirmed by expert waggon restorers, Chris Hill & John Pockett, to be an early ledge waggon, built about 1898 by Thomas Tong of Kearsley near Bolton, Lancashire.

The Tong family were known as one of the finest builders of Romany vardos in Britain, including ledges, readings, burtons and bowtops. Thomas Tong started up as a timber merchant and smith in the 1850s. His business grew into a family affair with the assistance of sons William and Joseph and grandsons William and Thomas II. In the 1890s Trafalgar Boswell (father of Silvester Gordon Boswell) owned the second waggon built by Tong and "it was considered a palace on wheels". Emperor Boss commissioned the last waggon from the Tongs in the 1920s.

The waggon for sale is in sound condition and with authentic carvings throughout. However requiring a general tidy up and a redecoration to bring to top condition. Sale includes shafts, steps, rack and pan box. Inside it's fully furnished. Epping-type coal burning range, fixed bed place, display cupboards and oil lamp included.