32. Frontier Winters

Before the invention of automobiles, horse drawn vehicles were used for individual transportation. During the winter months carriages, due to their thin wheels and heavy loads, had difficulty traveling through the snow. Sleighs were a better option for wintertime travel.

General Nelson A. Miles owned this sleigh and used it while stationed at Fort Leavenworth. General Miles served in many conflicts including the American Civil War, American Indian Wars, and the Spanish–American War. He was named Commanding General of the United States Army in 1895. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 1903.
Miles Enlisted Overcoat 1879, Frontier Army Museum Collection
Bearskin Gloves, Frontier Army Museum Collection
Muskrat Gloves, Frontier Army Museum Collection
Muskrat Hat, Frontier Army Museum Collection