The carriages at Shelburne Museum

"The Carriages at Shelburne Museum" by Lilian Baker Carlisle is a museum pamphlet published in the mid-20th century, specifically in 1956. The document serves as an informational guide about the various carriages housed at the Shelburne Museum in Vermont, highlighting the historical significance and craftsmanship of horse-drawn vehicles from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The book discusses the evolution and cultural importance of carriages in American society, particularly focusing on their aesthetic and functional attributes. In the pamphlet, Carlisle provides an overview of the museum's collection, detailing the different types of carriages such as phaetons, broughams, and surreys, along with their historical context and usage. Through richly descriptive language, the book captures the elegance and intricacy of each carriage, while intertwining anecdotes about the Webb family, founders of the museum, who were passionate about preserving these historical artifacts. The pamphlet serves as both an educational resource and a tribute to the artistry of carriage-making, making it a valuable read for those interested in transportation history and cultural heritage.