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Gypsies! Wanderers! They were quite common in the British Isles. To some extent, they still are. The British gypsies were well known for their highly decorated and elaborately equipped caravans -- virtually houses on wheels.
This is an extraordinary example of such a vehicle. Notice the fascinating colors and detailed decoration. It was built right around 1900 by Will Wright and Rothwell Haigh, of Leeds, England. It is called a Bow-Top Caravan because of its roof's shape. The roof style was distinct to this particular manufacturer. The company continued to produce such caravans until about 1925.
The interior of this wagon is fully equipped for living. It includes a small stove for both heating and cooking, set inside a fireplace (complete with hearth and mantel). It has a good-sized double bed built over a series of storage cabinets. There is also a sitting bench and a small table for working and dining.
Add a pair of horses, or a very strong single horse, and one is ready to roam the countryside.
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