Wells Fargo stagecoach
Hover over the stagecoach
and discover interesting
facts.
Considered the finest passenger vehicle of the time, the stagecoach traveled an average of five miles per hour, changing horses at swing stations every twelve miles. With as many as nine people seated on three benches inside, one passenger described his journey as:
“A through-ticket and 15 inches of seat, with a fat man on one side, a poor widow on the other, a baby in your lap, a bandbox over your head, and three or more persons immediately in front, leaning against your knees, making the picture, as well as your sleeping place, for the trip.”
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Top Railing
Although made to carry luggage, the roof often provided extra seating for as many as 9 passengers.
Considered the finest passenger vehicle of the time, the stagecoach traveled an average of five miles per hour, changing horses at swing stations every twelve miles. With as many as nine people seated on three benches inside, one passenger described his journey as:
“A through-ticket and 15 inches of seat, with a fat man on one side, a poor widow on the other, a baby in your lap, a bandbox over your head, and three or more persons immediately in front, leaning against your knees, making the picture, as well as your sleeping place, for the trip.”
Wheels
The wheels and running gear of the stagecoach were painted a bright straw yellow.
Tires
A circular iron band was expanded by heat and set around a wooden rim, then plunged in cold water to shrink it securely in place.
Spokes
Made of hand-hewn hickory, every spoke was the exact same weight and measurement to ensure perfect balance.
Driver's box
and shotgun seat
The driver handled the reigns of a team of four or six horses. The Wells Fargo shotgun messenger kept an eye out for bandits and protected the Wells Fargo treasure box stored in the front boot.
Mail Bag
The stagecoach offered a fast and reliable way for customers to communicate with the rest of the country. It transported letters and packages hundreds of miles to eager loved ones.
Red and Gold
Wells Fargo stagecoaches were painted a familiar red with the company name in gold leaf. These are still the signature colors of Wells Fargo.
Thoroughbraces
The stagecoach rested on thick leather straps called thoroughbraces that served as shock absorbers. Their rocking motion led Mark Twain to describe the Wells Fargo stagecoach as a "cradle on wheels".
Rear Boot
Express parcels and mail were stored in the rear boot, which was covered with waterproofed leather.
