Baby Carriage with Canopy
Credit LineGift of Dr. K. P. Richardson, 1976.
Object number1976.025.001
Label TextThe 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.
NameCarriage, Baby
