It is easy to say we have come a long way with mobile transportation, but the sheer necessity of it hasn't changed. Whether moving people or products, having a proper mode of transportation has remained vital. In its earliest years, carriage building was a very competitive industry, with employment afforded to a group of skilled workers. From horse-drawn buggies for one or two occupants, to large multi-passenger coaches and cargo wagons, independent companies found their individual niches. Most of which were established in cities of heavy industry and population.
One such nationally known company was F. Ivers & Son founded in approximately 1858 by Francis Ivers. Based in North Cambridge, Massachusetts, they specialized in the Ivers Buggy and other light road carriages. The Ivers company would survive many decades, buying and merging with other prominent carriage companies along the way. Historical records would indicate the success of the Ivers brand had much to do with their quality standards, supervision of projects & trained personnel, affordable price, and ability to conduct prompt service repairs.
Sadly, as with the progression of the transportation age, the horsedrawn carriage would ultimately lose out to the new automobile. By the beginning of World War I, the Ivers brand of carriages would come to an end, lending those skilled craftsmen over to an entirely new competitive industry of automobile manufacturing!
Offered here is an excellent representation piece from that wonderful time in history. This F. Ivers & Son "Ivers Buggy" was beautifully restored many years ago and has remained an indoor display piece ever since. Finished with a black body over a vibrant shade of red on the chassis and wheels, with complimenting yellow and white accent pinstriping throughout. This two-passenger buggy has a leaf spring seat with sidestep plates for easier entry, along with a footrest for added comfort. Simple in design with a likely comparison equal in purpose to a compact car of today. A small amount of storage exists under and behind the seat, along with provisions for the whip holder and eyelets for the reigns. Up front, you have a shaft fitted with dual neckyokes to appoint two small horses or ponies.
This carriage has been out of service for many years so we can make no claims to its true functionality, but it has made for a terrific display ornament and conversation piece for our younger visitors! Please feel free to call with questions or to make arrangements to view it in person! Sold on bill of sale.
