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 the 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 hearse of that period cost about $1,500.
- Historically accurate, highly detailed model
- Laser cut basswood parts
- Cast Britannia metal axles & shafts
- Machine turned aluminum wheel hubs
- Photo-etched brass ornamentation
- 5 sheets of detailed plans
- 48-page illustrated instruction manual