Monday, 23 December 2013

On this day in UK history – 23rd December

On this day in UK history:

23 December 1834 English architect - Joseph Hansom registered the patent design of his 'Safety Cab' better known as the Hansom cab - on the suggestion of his employer.




The Hansom cab had distinctive safety features including: a suspended axle / larger wheels and lower position of the cab. The safety features led to less wear and tear and fewer accidents. Joseph went on to sell the patent to a company for £10,000 however, due to the purchaser's financial difficulties - the sum was never paid.


The first Hansom cab travelled down Coventry Road in Hinckley in 1835. The Hansom cab was improved by later modifications and exported worldwide to become a feature on many 19th-century street scenes.


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