Photograph of Alexander Craig, Cousin of Aimee Pigot

Datec. 1876

Credit LineTransfer from the London and Middlesex Historical Society, 1959

Object number1959.007.001A

Label TextIn this image, Alexander McLean Craig (1877-1943) is pictured in a c. 1876 three-wheeled baby carriage. The carriage is obejct number 1959.007.001 and is also in the searchable object database. The design of baby carriages, strollers, or prams that we are familiar with today developed in the 1700s. Early strollers were highly decorative and acted as status symbols, with a focus on aesthetics over functionality. These strollers were often pulled, not pushed, and were difficult to control due to having solid axles which did not allow independent wheel movement. In 1889 the African American inventor, William H. Richardson designed an axle that allowed the wheels to turn individually, allowing the stroller to be turned 360 degrees. He also designed a reversable mechanism that allowed the carriage to be turned to face the operator or face away. Over the years more safety features like breaks, seatbelts, and retractable covers were added.

NamePhotograph