Today, limos are de rigueur for certain cultural rituals, from proms to weddings to funerals. The image of the limo has become an icon in our collective consciousness, whether or not we have personally had the experience of actually riding in one. However, many of us have no idea where the limo came from or how it got to be the pinnacle of luxury that it is today. Provided here is a brief history of the limousine.
Limousin, France
Hundreds of years ago, shepherds in Limousin, France invented a hooded cloak to protect themselves from the rain and wind. This garment was known as a limousine, and is believed to be the origin of the name.
Sedan Chairs
The earliest version of the limo may have been the sedan chairs of the 1720s. These unique vehicles consisted of an enclosed compartment, similar to that of a luxury carriage, which was carried on poles by uniformed men.
Chauffeur-Driven Carriages
Many carriages of the 19th century were driven by servants or professional drivers. These carriages often featured an enclosed compartment for passengers and an open area for the driver. These drivers often wore garments similar to the ancient limousine for protection.
As automobiles replaced carriages, many of them featured a similar design – enclosed compartment for the passenger and open area for the driver. Again, the drivers continued to wear limousine cloaks.
Early Professional Limousines
By the early 20th century, it became clear that wealthy New York tourists wanted to visit the city in more luxury than a taxicab could provide. James Carey was one of the first to identify this niche and fill it. In 1921, he opened a limousine service that is still popular today.
The 1920s to Today
The concept of chauffeur-driven limousines caught on quickly. Over the next decades, stretch limos became a fact of life for movie stars, presidents and other celebrities. Common folks began to rent the vehicles for all sorts of occasions.
Of course, today the sky is the limit in limo styles, from super-stretch models to Hummers. Limos may be equipped with DVD players, full bars and numerous other interesting diversions. To learn more about your choices in limo, why not visit our convenient dealership? We would be happy to answer any questions you have.
