Little did Bro John Walker know that when in 1968 his father said, “I’ll tell you what Lad, we’ll build a Wold Wagon”, it would lead to the construction of a scale model of a Romany gypsy caravan and an interest in the Romany way of life.

Bro John remembers visiting Sam Corner, the Rudston maker of Wold Wagons, and the relief he felt when his father was convinced that a scale model, rather than full size, was the way to go.  Measuring up commenced and soon two Wold Wagon models had been constructed.  One of these is today in the Beck Isle Folk Museum.

To model the horses they visited Colin Nicholls, Bridlington coal merchant.  He paraded his somewhat bemused horse Captain at various angles for photographs to be taken. Four model horses were produced although one has escaped the paddock and is nowhere to be found.

Bro John showed the various styles of Gypsy caravans, sometimes called Vardos, and introduced us to the work of Vardo builder Bill Wright of Leeds. A “ledge” caravan, was at one time displayed at the York Castle Museum after restoration by Jim Berry and his wife, who themselves lived in such a van. This museum van was studied and photographed as the prototype to be modelled.

Work stopped on Bro John’s father’s death. Bro John finally completed the model during the Covid restrictions and displayed it for us to inspect after the talk.  Further research by Bro John was needed to complete the model. The paint lining out, decorations and furnishing are amazing.  All the features are there including hostess range, cratch, chicken coop, angel brackets, and pan box.

Brother John outlined the history of the Romany people, their traditions, and lifestyles. He made particular reference to the Appleby horse fair, weddings, costumes, and life on the road.  He said many Bridlingtonians will remember gypsy Harriet Smith who sold pegs door to door.

The vote of thanks was given by Joan Turner commenting on the skill and patience required to complete such a model.