Wagon
18
"Independent Riders"
Wagon
Boss: Buddy Jones
Assistant Wagon Boss: Shane Linnell
Mule Skinner: Buddy Jones & Shane Linnell
Biography
The 59 Independent wagon joined the Salt Grass Trail in the early 1970s, and the wagon's history goes back farther than any of its present members. The wagon has 20 riders, led by Wagon Boss Buddy Jones. Don Carpenter is the wagon's oldest rider, and Melody Aldridge has made the ride for more than 30 years, longer than any other wagon member. Brice Schriner is the group's youngest rider. The group's name originated from the founders of the club. They were all from North US 59. Independent is a state of mind. Wagon Boss Buddy Jones and Assistant Wagon Boss Shane Linnell drive the team of mules, but group members joke that when Buddy drives, the mules are usually in charge.