Our Historic Building
Art 634 calls the historic building of The Jackson Wagon Company home, over 180 years later!
The Jackson Wagon Company, established in 1842 in Jackson, Michigan, quickly became renowned for its high-quality, durable wagons. The company's origins are closely tied to the Michigan State Prison, where it utilized prison labor to produce its wagons. This labor arrangement provided the company with a steady supply of workers and contributed to its success.
During the California Gold Rush of 1849, Jackson wagons gained a reputation for their strength and reliability, making them a popular choice for pioneers heading west2. The company's wagons were known for their ability to withstand harsh conditions and heavy loads, earning them the nickname "Wheels that Won the West".
One of the most famous stories involving a Jackson wagon is its use by P.T. Barnum for his circus1. In the early 1880s, Barnum contacted the company to build a wagon sturdy enough to carry Jumbo the Elephant, who could no longer walk in circus parades. The Jackson Wagon Company's skilled workers, including prison laborers, built a wagon that successfully transported Jumbo, allowing the beloved elephant to continue performing.
At its peak, the Jackson Wagon Company employed over 200 workers, with 120 of them being prisoners. By 1898, the company had produced over 5,000 wagons. However, the advent of automobiles in the early 20th century led to a decline in demand for wagons, and the company eventually folded around 1911.
Despite its closure, the legacy of The Jackson Wagon Company lives on. Its wagons are remembered for their durability and contribution to the westward expansion of the United States. The company's innovative use of prison labor and its role in supporting the circus industry are notable aspects of its history.
In honor of this diverse history, Art 634 has their annual Circus of Curiosities, which is a one-day adult circus showcasing performance artists from around the Midwest. Art 634 continues to fill the building with positivity and bright colors, growing the great spirit of innovation that has thrived here and rewriting the story of hardship held within the building’s history.
