Spotlight on Collections: The Doctor's Buggy

The Doctor’s Buggy (also known as a Physician’s Phaeton) is an American designed vehicle, pulled by a single horse, extensively used by doctors, but also favored by ladies and sometimes businessmen. The large top provided protection from the weather (and a little privacy for young suiters). The top required 70 feet of high-grade leather and had up to three windows, or lights. The top easily folded down when the weather was pleasant.

Vehicles of this type were considered a higher grade with button tufted wool upholstery and a plush carpet. A waterproof apron came neatly folded on the dash, for extra protection from the weather.

This vehicle has a drop front which allowed for extra leg room. Lanterns were common and provided little illumination, but made the vehicle visible to others, important when the doctor made a night call on country roads.

The vehicle in the photograph above was made by the Loud Brothers of Amesbury, with a business located on the corner of Pleasant and Schools Streets. It was donated by the Toby family in 1986.

The illustration on the right shows another style for the Physician's Phaeton.

For in depth reading on the history of carriage making, see the publication linked below on the ACM website.

Allen, John J. History of Carriage Manufacturing, Automobile Body Building, and Accessories in Salisbury, Amesbury, West Amesbury and South Amesbury, 1800-1955.

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