ca. 1800
Back in the days of overland mail by Wells Fargo, this stagecoach design was the most widely used. It is the Concord style, which was originally built by Abbott Downing of Concord, New Hampshire during the early 1800's. The lumber was so carefully chosen that in some instances it would outlast the iron work.
The Concord coash could hold up to 21 passengers - nine (9) seated inside and 12 on the roof. It would weigh over a Ton, and stood 8' tall by 5-1/2' wide. The drivers were extremely skilled, and rather than hold all of the reins in one hand (the Engish method), they held two or three in the left hand and the off reins in the right hand to give them better control of their horse teams.
The most remarkable featuer of the Concord was it's comfort; even Mark Twain once called on "a cradle on wheels". There were many other designs and variations of the stagecoach other than the Concord. Still, they would never reach the amazing craftsmanship or attractiveness of the Concord.
This particular coach is a reproduction of the classic COncord design, built by Kenneth Matrin of Latham Coach Works of Fortuna, MO, and was the first acquisition of the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame in December 2001. It was often seen at various events around Fort Worth, TX, and is the first wagon guests encounter upon entering the museum.
Generously adopted by Pat O'Neal September 2024.