A Farrier specialised in horse shoeing (unlike a blacksmith who fabricated all things from hot metal). A Farrier was also referred to as a Veterinary Surgeon and cared for all aspect of a horse's health. Although the Worshipful Company of Farriers was formed in 1692, in the early 19th century Farriers still relied on experimentation and dogmatism, often perpetuating harmful practices. It was only in the 20th century that veterinary science and farriery began to develop into what we have today. [eg see Hickman's Farriery, published 1977].London expanded greatly during the 19th century, and much of the growth occurred in the suburbs. This placed heavy demands on transport, predominantly horse transport before the rail network developed.
By 1825, about 600 stage coaches ran out from London; approximately 20% of all the stage coaches in Britain. However, stage coaches were not convenient for city work and the omnibus was developed in 1829. The first omnibuses carried 20 passengers and were pulled by three horses. Later, smaller omnibuses, carrying 13 - 16, and pulled by two horses, were used. As well, there were hackney carriages and two wheel cabriolets ('cabs'). Nearly 2500 two-wheeler and 200 four-wheeler cabs were licensed by the mid 1840s. In addition to public transport, many more horses were used for private transport and delivery of goods.
In the 1840s omnibus carrying capacity was increased from 13 or 16 to 24 or 25 by adding two seats lengthways on the roof. With these new double deckers ('knifeboards'), fares could be reduced to 2d or 3d per stage. Extra omnibuses were put on for the Great Exhibition crowds in 1851, with intensified competition that further reduced fares when the Exhibition was over.
A two-horse omnibus required 11 or 12 horses to keep it on the road all day. Rest days were required and spare horses needed in case of sickness.
| Return |