Remington Carriage Museum
Horse Power
Descendants of 19th-century railroad baron Cornelius Vanderbilt offered $300,000 for what was once a family carriage. But the Remington Carriage Museum was honour-bound to refuse. The 1910 Royal Hansom cab was one of 48 horse-drawn vehicles donated to Alberta by private collector Don Remington in 1987--with the condition that none ever be sold.
The museum now houses 270 carriages and wagons, making it the largest such collection in North America. From a lofty open landau used by Queen Elizabeth II to a lowly wooden tank wagon that once watered the streets of Fernie, B.C., the collection reveals the social status and utilitarian importance attached to horse powered conveyances in the transition from an agricultural to an industrial age.
The elegant museum building itself is worth the visit. It includes a restoration shop where coach makers and wheelwrights are happy to share the tricks of their trades.
Three breeds of horse are pampered in the adjacent stable. There are Clydesdales to haul the heavy wagons, Quarter Horses for the buggies and sleighs and rare Canadians for light carriage work.
The Remington Carriage Museum is located in Cardston and operates year-round.
