Here they are – the most frequently asked questions…
What is a wheelwright?
The term wheelwright in the narrowest sense means someone who builds wooden wheels for horse-drawn vehicles. Today, many people who designate themselves wheelwrights also do carriage construction and restoration.
How do I become a wheelwright?
One of the best ways is to learn from a practicing wheelwright. Also, there are beginners courses offered in both the US and Canada. For more information go to training.
What do I get for my membership dues?
Membership in the WCWA entitles you to receive The Traveller which comes out three times a year. The Traveller contains technical information, news about various members, information about upcoming events and courses as well as book reviews, information on where to find vehicle plans and parts.
Do I have to live in Western Canada to be a member of the Association?
No, Our members are scattered all over Canada, the United States and parts of Europe and Australia.
Do I have to be a professional wheelwright to join the Association?
No, although many of our members are professional, some are semi professional and others pursue wheelwrighting as a hobby. Moreover some of our members are simply interested in the horse drawn vehicles, or interested in related trades such as blacksmithing.
What’s the whole point of joining the Association?
The WCWA was created by a group of western Canadian wheelwrights as a way of furthering our craft through sharing information. We needed a way to encourage new wheelwrights by providing them with the information they need to find the materials and learn the skills required to do their job. One of the ways we share information is through our newsletter called, The Traveller.
I don’t like meetings. If I join the WCWA am I going to have a lot of meetings or other obligations dumped on me?
We don’t like meetings either! Most of us live too far from each other to get together regularly for meetings even if we wanted to. The Association has one meeting a year, usually at a museum somewhere and the meeting part is kept short. Attendance is purely voluntary, but many members enjoy coming because the program accompanying the meeting is interesting, and it’s a good chance to exchange information with other wheelwrights
Do I have to be a member of the WCWA to take these courses?
No, anyone can take the courses.
Alright, I’m convinced how do I join?
You will find the application for joining on this web site. Go to Memberships.