Our collection
The Curtis Horse Drawn Transportation Collection is comprised of many rare and high quality vehicles with international, regional and local significance that were collected during many years of extensive travel in the United States and Canada. Many of the vehicles have been partially or completely renovated while others are in original condition.
Video
Using The Past To Inspire The Future//An Introduction To CHEC
Take a tour of our collection as we tell you a little about ourselves.
Sheep Herder Wagon//Self Contained Mobile Living Quarters
Used to house the sheep herders while herding sheep. This was a much better alternative to setting up camp every few days when the herd would move to greener feeding grounds. In addition to being convenient this wagon also protected the sheep herder from the elements which could be very harsh at times. Although this looks similar to an emigrant (Oregon Trail) wagon, the sheep herder wagon was much heavier and could only travel small distances at a time.
Country vs City Buggy//American Transportation 1880s
There is one major difference between these vehicles. Can you spot the difference between the country and city buggy? Hint- it is not the color scheme, although that is unique too. Utilizing a double elliptical spring suspension in both the front and rear of the vehicle helps the rider to enjoy a smoother ride. These buggies were common for the time and often used to run everyday errands.
Roof Seat Break//Not Your Working Man's Wagon//Affluential Family Vehicle
Originally used to break in animals and eventually modified to utilize the wasted space by adding additional seating. This particular wagon is not your working man's wagon and was most likely owned by a very affluential family. Complete with a collapsible ladder, cooler and picnic supplies.
Firefighting Ladder Wagon//A 3 Part Firefighting Series//Part 1
In this video we take a look at a vital piece of firefighting equipment used in the 1800 and 1900s. The ladder wagon made it possible to fight fires that occurred in taller buildings than ever before. Prior to this innovation, fighting fires in multi level buildings was near impossible.
Fire Chief Cart//A 3 Part Firefighting Series//Part 2
In this video we take a look at the Fire Chief Cart. This would follow the steam pumper with a load of coal to the fire. The coal was used to keep the water hot in order to produce steam causing pressure to push water out of the hose and fight fires in tall buildings. Where did the word dashboard come from? Watch the video to find out!
Fire Pumper//A 3 Part Firefighting Series//Part 3
This 1899 vintage German hand pump water pumper. Another tool firefighters could use to get water multi story buildings.
Funeral Car//The Road To Innovation//Revolutionary People
The intricacy of this vehicle was revolutionary. James Cunningham's Funeral Car was so innovative that this vehicle came to be known as Hearse. As you have seen in other video James Cunningham was a very revolutionary person who helped pave the road to innovation.
Sicilian Cart or Carrettu Sicilianu//The Intersection of Opulence and Utility
What exactly is a Donkey Cart? In this video we will share these gorgeous carts with you that are often referred to as Donkey Carts. They are expertly crafted and designed so that every millimeter is covered with art. It is a true example of opulence meets utility.
James Cunningham//From Carriage Builder To NASA Supplier
This beautifully renovated carriage truly bridges the past with the present.
Photo Gallery
CONTRIBUTE TO OUR MISSION!
CONTRIBUTE TO OUR MISSION!
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and improve conditions. Your generous donation will fund our mission.
