Long Island Museum Exhibits Historic Fire Carriages

John Mitty Saturday, April 20, 2013

Before the era of automobiles, vehicle manufacturers had to deal with a number of unique challenges when designing fire carriages.  These unique carriages included pressurized steam pumpers and other types of technology which were cutting edge for their time.  They were also designed for greater shock absorption and speed than regular carriages.  A number of these historic fire carriages are now on exhibit inside the Long Island Museum of American Art, History and Carriages in Stony Brook. 

The display is set up in a dramatic room which includes fabric strips blown by a fan and sound and lighting events meant to simulate fire, creating an exciting environment in which to see the old carriages and imagine them in action.  “This is our showstopper,” explained Sam Morse, the designer of the exhibit.  “We wanted that theatrical punch.”  Anyone who is interested in 19^th century life, and in particular, 19^th century engineering and vehicles, will be fascinated by the variety of old carriages designed in different styles with different capabilities.  “Many people have encountered a carriage only in a movies and have no idea that this physical artifact still exists and is important to treasure,” stated Joshua Ruff, the carriage exhibit’s curator.

jmitty@longislandyellowpages.com

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