The History

Explore the rich background of the Reading style Gypsy Wagon..

The Reading Design

Historically, Romani families travelled in these wagons which were homes as well as modes of transport. The ‘Reading’, dated from 1870, was highly prized for its aesthetic yet practical design.

Side elevation

A truly classic design. The Reading is 10ft long with a porch on the front and back. Relatively light in weight it was prized for it’s agility on and off road.

Rear elevation

‘Kite’ walls (out-sloping) make this ideal for maximising space of the rolling home. Great skill is required for making interior shelves & cabinets.

Inside floor plan

A cosy haven where all space is utilised. This drawing provides a birds eye view of the interior which is almost identical to our own wagon.

The Reading is the epitome of the romanticised notion of the travelling gypsy fortune teller.

The Waters Family

Donjo’s Wagon was previously owned by the late London based Dennis Waters and his wife Angie. Along with their daughter Lisa the family would often take holidays in the wagon which became a vehicle for many happy memories.

Hands of maker

Denis built the wagon by hand in 2016, inspired by the local travelling children that would visit his local area in London.

A skilled craftsman, Denis had previously been commissioned by the Queen to build one of her own carriages.

The Gypsy Wagon would be the last carriage Denis would build.

Hand painted

Dennis’ talented daughter Lisa lined and painted the wagon’s intricate patterns both inside and out.

The new era

The Enchanted Wagon as a concept is deeply rooted in the nomadic traditions of the Romani people. It has strong cultural associations with storytelling and mysticism which is fitting for a new and playful era.

Today, Denis’ wagon is a creative and imaginative space for cultural and spiritual exploration and the rich history of the Romani culture lives on within its whole being.