Object Record
Images
Metadata
Title |
Four-wheel Governess Cart, c. 1890 |
Object Name |
Cart, Governess |
Description |
Four-wheel Governess Cart, c. 1890. This example has four wheels. The front has arched rockers under which the front wheels can pass for improved turning. The varnished natural wood combined with wicker contributes to its stylish finish. Maker unknown: American, possibly Brewster & Company, NY (TBD). Part of the San Mateo County Historical Association's carriage collection. |
Date |
c. 1890 |
Creator |
Unknown |
Role |
Manufacturer |
Catalog Number |
1973.427 |
Dimensions |
H-48 W-60 D-72 inches |
Collection |
3D - Land Transportation Tools & Equipment |
Provenance |
-From the Roth Collection at Filoli. -Probably made by Brewster & Company as it is similar to an example in the collection of the Long Island Museum. -The Roth Collection is particularly significant as all of the carriages were built by one of the two Brewster firms in New York City, producers of the finest quality vehicles for America's leading families. The National Carriage Association in Staten Island has the original records of the Brewster Company. Since Roth carriages were produced for use in California, they evidence some special changes to adapt them to their owner's way of living. As of June 10, 1973, each carriage was in superb condition, never having been restored. Each carriage bears an individual registration number from the factory. The carriages were built almost entirely of wood, and many coats of paint were applied, each coat rubbed and polished until it was mirror-smooth. As the paint of that era dried slowly, there often was more than a week's wait between the application of coats. |
Notes |
Governess carts were popular vehicle types in the early 20th century. They were based on the Tonneau, or Tub Cart, that had high sides, longitudinal seats and access through a rear door and step. Although the Tub Cart had wood sides, wicker was also used, especially in America. The high sides prevented children from falling out, and many were small scale to be pulled by ponies, sometimes driven by a governess (hence the name) or the children. The variety of breeds and sizes of equines used with carriages, from large draft horses used with work vehicles to ponies used by children is a concept most people do not understand today. Breeding "type for purpose" was entrenched in 19th century culture when horse-drawn vehicles were a predominant mode of transportation. [Carriage Consultant Merri Ferrell 8/2021] This carriage currently in storage and not available for viewing. |
Search Terms |
Carriage Carriages Filoli Horse Drawn Vehicles Roth, Lurline Matson Roth, William P (Mrs.) Transportation |
Subjects |
Baskets Carriages & coaches Carts & wagons Governesses Transportation |
People |
Roth, Lurline Matson Roth, William P. Mrs. |
Credit line |
Courtesy of Mrs. William P. Roth |