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This truck helps sell a brand

Truck Treasures: A Dodge Power Wagon from days gone by has become a symbol for the Pioneer Woman franchise.

June 2, 2022

1 Min Read
vintage Dodge Power Wagon truck painted red
MORE THAN A TRUCK: You will likely find this old truck parked on the streets of a small Oklahoma town every day. It’s become an iconic symbol for the Pioneer Woman, a brand developed by an Oklahoma ranch wife. Tom J. Bechman

If you visit Pawhuska, Okla., you’re likely going there because you or your spouse wants to learn more about Ree Drummond, better known as the Pioneer Woman. This Oklahoma ranch wife now has her own TV cooking show, a whole line of cookbooks with food photos she took herself, and The Mercantile in Pawhuska, with a restaurant, bakery and more.

You will know you’re at the right place when you see a restored, fire-engine red Dodge Power Wagon parked along a small-town street, right in front of The Mercantile. As it turns out, there is an Indiana connection to that truck. A friend of the family who lives in Indiana restored the old truck, using parts from the Drummond Ranch.

The truck has become so associated with the Pioneer Woman franchise and brand that you can even buy a toy replica. For $22, you can have your own toy Dodge Power Wagon.

The Dodge Power Wagon itself was introduced to the public in 1946. It was the first commercially sold truck in the U.S. to feature four-wheel drive. Historians say it was based on a vehicle Dodge built for the military during World War II.

Early marketing campaigns for the truck encouraged farmers and ranchers to buy one to pull plows, drills and more. It also featured a PTO that could power post-hole diggers and more. Many Dodge Power Wagons were popular as tow trucks.

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