Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Name That Vehicle

Whether we’re talkin’ broughams, cabriolets, phaetons, buggies, driving wagons, or any number of carriage styles, the subject of horse drawn vehicles can become easily muddied with the sheer diversity of descriptive labels.  In similar fashion, the names of wagons and western vehicles can also be a bit perplexing from time to time.  As proof of that statement, consider the fact that the term ‘Concord’ was used to promote both heavy and lighter stage coach designs.  A ‘Mountain wagon’ can relate to two totally different types of conveyances, each used in the West.  A Dearborn and Jersey wagon share numerous similarities.  And while a ‘Road wagon’ can refer to a mid-sized, dead-axle freight wagon, it can also accurately describe a light buggy set on springs.  Individually and collectively, it all can add up to a passel of confusion.

 
Further emphasizing the challenges with names, some vehicle monikers are regional in nature and others carry titles applied predominantly by the maker.  One of the places that can help clear up some of the confusion is the original literature, itself.  With that in mind, we thought we’d share an illustration from the Wheels That Won The West® archives.  Take a look at the image above.  Can you name this style of vehicle?  I’ll give a couple of hints.  It’s a plate from a major maker and the vehicle name was aligned with the southwest region of the U.S.   Drop us a line if you believe you have the answer.  We’ll give credit to any correct answers received prior to next week’s blog post.  Good luck.