Decorative object - Hampden Buggy Model, Chas W. Davis, Unknown

Historical information

The collection of thirteen horse drawn vehicles were carefully handmade by Mr Chas W Davis 1925 - 2002. He was a talented artist and saw doctor. This model of a horse drawn Hampden Buggy replicates the vehicle that enjoyed respect from the public from c.1800's. It came in various types.

Physical description

A model of a Hampden buggy, c1900. The body is low to the ground, making it easy for passengers to board and disembark as well as allowing for speed and is lightweight for one horse to pull, making the journey cheaper than using four horses. It has four spoked wheels, two large and two small which have gold painted mudguards. It has brown padded seating, gold painted armrests and two coach lamps. There are two long shafts on each side to surround the biscuit coloured horsel with a white tail and mane, which has the necessary horse tack for carriage use to help the driver communicate with the horse. The original Hampden buggy was the inspiration of K.Booth, an American coach maker. It was designed for the ladies to show off their finery. Keep Bros. and Wood of Melbourne built many variations of buggies for wet or dry conditions.

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