1/12 Model Trailways 1895 Horse Drawn Hearse Wagon 6009

BRIEF HISTORY  Originally, the wooden or metal framework over the coffin was called a hearse. It was decorated with numerous spikes to hold burning candles. Sometime in the 17th century, people started using the word to refer to not only the construction above the coffin, but to the vehicle that carried the casket to the grave. Early hearses were hand-drawn. As time went on, families started to choose rural cemeteries instead of traditional church grounds. Caskets had to be transported greater distances. People wanted to go out in style and ordered elaborately decorated coffins in exotic woods. The hearses became fancier and heavier. They needed horsepower, not manpower. The first American horse-drawn hearses date back to the mid nineteenth century. A typical horse-drawn hearse of that period cost about $1,500.  KIT FEATURES: Historically accurate, highly detailed model  Laser cut basswood parts  Basswood wheel rims & spokes  Cast Britannia metal axles & shafts  Machine tu