20th Century Shepherd’s Van

Shepherds Van with sheep surrounding the outside and a Shepherd standing in the entrance

The Shepherd's Living Van dates back to approximately 1915 and hails from Little Kingshill, Buckinghamshire, potentially serving the Winter family at Boot Farm.

Why is the Van at the Museum?

The Shepherd's Living Van at Chiltern Open Air Museum

The Museum houses a rare breed of Oxford Down sheep, and our dedicated staff and volunteers require accommodations near the lambing fold, where the lambs are born.

What is a Shepherd’s Living Van?

A Shepherd's Living Van is a mobile hut specifically crafted for shepherds to reside in during the lambing season. During spring, when the sheep were giving birth, shepherds needed to care for them around the clock. These vans, towed into fields by horses, featured amenities like a straw mattress and a stove for cooking and warmth.


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