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Right side view.

Forder and Co. Ltd. Hansom Cab, c.1910

Manufacturer
Datec. 1910
MediumWood; Metal; Textile, Leather
DimensionsDimensions: 400.4 × 196 × 246 cm (157 5/8 × 77 3/16 × 96 7/8 in.)
Object numberRCM.1988.49.16
CollectionRemington Carriage Museum Collection
Description
A taxi with rubber tires and built-in shafts. Passenger entry is through a set of front-facing double doors and a window that opens through a driver-controlled system of chains and pulleys. When opened, the window slides back against the cab’s ceiling. This vehicle accommodates two passengers and the driver; the driver has a raised seat outside the cab at the back of the vehicle. Hansom cabs were typically owner-driven when used commercially, but this specific vehicle was privately owned and driven by a coachman.
More Information
Hansom cabs were common sights in busy city streets. Some were used publicly, like a modern taxicab, and as such have an interesting design. The doors and the window are opened by the driver, using a system of chains and levers. It isn't designed to open from the inside! This feature ensured that riders wouldn't be able to leave without paying their fare, which could be handed to the driver through a small trapdoor in the roof.

This Hansom cab was once owned by Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt and used privately. It is in 'last-use condition', which means that it has not undergone any restoration.