Madeira, Funchal - Oxen carriage
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Madeira, Funchal - Oxen carriage
Traditionally, the means of travel in Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, did not include wheeled carriages. The uneven cobbled roadways, steep hills and sharp bends, meant that horse drawn carriages and, later, motorised vehicles were regarded as unsuitable. Rather, the locals opted for various other, more original, forms of conveyance. Crude wooden carts, mounted on wooden runners, lubricated with grease and pulled at a sedate pace by oxen were a favourite, as depicted on this postcard. These carros de bois were said to have been introduced to the island by a British Army Officer who required a means of conveying his invalid wife about town. Date: circa 1910s
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Media ID 11548721
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Bois Bullock Canopy Carro Drapes Funchal Greased Madeira Oxen Runners Slow
EDITORS COMMENTS
Step back in time with this image of Funchal, Madeira's enchanting capital city, as it once was in the 1910s. The scene showcases the traditional means of transportation that thrived in this hilly, cobblestone terrain - the oxen-drawn carros de bois. Unlike the wheeled carriages and motorized vehicles that were considered impractical for the city's uneven roads and steep hills, these crude wooden carts, mounted on runners and lubricated with grease, were the preferred choice. The oxen, working in a calm and steady pace, pulled the carriages, providing a unique and authentic experience for passengers. The carros de bois, introduced to the island by a British Army Officer seeking a means to transport his invalid wife around town, were a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The carriages were often adorned with canopies and drapes, offering a touch of elegance and comfort. This photograph offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Madeira, showcasing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its people. The oxen-drawn carriages, a symbol of the past, continue to be a popular attraction for visitors today, offering a memorable and authentic experience.
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