Wade House Historic Site and the Wesley Jung Carriage Museum have proudly acquired a remarkable new addition to their collection: Abbot-Downing Concord Stagecoach No. 433. Built in 1875 by the Abbot-Downing Company of Concord, New Hampshire, this beautifully preserved piece of American transportation history enriches the Wade House experience and fills a significant gap in the site’s storytelling.

A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship

Ordered on May 7, 1875, at a cost exceeding $1,200—a small fortune at the time—this Eastern-style stagecoach represents the pinnacle of 19th-century craftsmanship. It is fitted in the “Hotel” style, boasting additional rooftop seating, glass windows, and a leather-covered rear boot designed for luggage and mail.

The nine-passenger coach remains in exceptional condition. The interior retains its original upholstery, a testament to its careful preservation over the decades. Its red and yellow exterior is adorned with intricate gold leaf designs, and the name of Wells Fargo & Company is prominently displayed, reflecting the stagecoach's historical significance. The original oil lamps and hardwood frame, crafted from oak, hickory, and ash, further emphasize the enduring quality of Abbot-Downing’s designs.

A Storied Past

The journey of this stagecoach is as fascinating as its design. Originally purchased and used in the Eastern United States, it was owned by Charles A. Stone and later by his son, Whitney. The younger Mr. Stone eventually sold it to John Kluge, a prominent collector who displayed the coach on his estate, Morven, in Charlottesville, Virginia. Now, this incredible artifact has found a permanent home at Wade House, where it will enhance the site’s immersive experience of stagecoach-era travel.

Completing the Story at Wade House

At the heart of Wade House Historic Site is the Stagecoach Inn, once a bustling stop for travelers navigating Wisconsin's early roadways. For years, the most significant piece missing from the site’s collection was an original stagecoach. With the arrival of Abbot-Downing Concord Stagecoach No. 433, that void has been filled. Visitors can now witness the very type of vehicle that shaped travel and commerce in the region, offering a tangible connection to the past.

The Concord stagecoach is more than a functional vehicle; it symbolizes the ingenuity and resilience of an era. Its unique "thoroughbrace" suspension, made from leather straps, gave passengers a smoother ride, while its rugged frame withstood the challenges of poor road conditions and river crossings. These features ensured that Abbot-Downing stagecoaches remained popular throughout their 75 years of production.

 

A Glimpse Into the Past

Stagecoaches were a lifeline for communities before the advent of railroads. They not only transported passengers but also carried mail, cargo, and payrolls—services that sometimes attracted the attention of outlaws, leading to the famous term "riding shotgun." In Wisconsin, companies like John Frink & Co., Wisconsin Stage Co., and Davis & Moore likely used Concord stagecoaches, linking towns and fostering economic growth.

Measuring over 13 feet long and weighing approximately 2,500 pounds, these coaches were built for both strength and style. Eastern-style coaches, like No. 433, featured ornate designs and enclosed seating, in contrast to their rugged Western counterparts. This particular model accommodated nine passengers inside, with additional seating for the driver, messenger, and passengers on top, sometimes carrying as many as 18 people in total.

A Rare and Priceless Artifact

Of the 1,800 Concord stagecoaches produced by Abbot-Downing, only around 160 are known to survive today, making this acquisition a rare treasure. The Wade House stagecoach stands out not only for its extraordinary condition but also for its ability to immerse visitors in the vibrant history of stagecoach travel.

Looking Ahead

The arrival of this stagecoach marks a new chapter for Wade House Historic Site. By providing a tangible link to Wisconsin's stagecoach era, it promises to captivate visitors and deepen their understanding of life in the 19th century. As the coach takes its place within the Wesley Jung Carriage Museum, it will serve as both a centerpiece of the collection and a gateway to the past.

Plan your visit to Wade House Historic Site and experience the splendor of Abbot-Downing Concord Stagecoach No. 433. More than just a relic, it’s a journey back in time—one that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the innovation and resilience of an earlier age.