Being a Denver limousine driver who is a history buff, I began thinking about the origin of the limousine itself the other day and I wanted to share it with you.
Since the 1700s
In some form or another, the concept of a chauffeured vehicle has been in existence since the 1700’s. Initially for the rich, they started as horse drawn carriages, gilded in gold and pulled by only the finest animals.
Origin of the Word
The word limousine is derived from the name of the French region Limousin, because this covered compartment physically resembled the cloak hood worn by the shepherds there. Alternate lore has the chauffeur wearing a Limousin-style cloak in the open driver’s compartment, for protection from the weather.
The first stretch
The first actual stretch limousine was created in Fort Smith, Arkansas around 1928 by a couch company names Armbruster. They were often referred to as “big band buses” because they were mainly used to transport famous big band leaders, their orchestras, as well as their instruments to various parts if the United States.
Growth in the 30s
In the 1930′s Limousines really started to take off. They were used to transport guests of hotels from the airport to the hotel and also on different sightseeing tours. Thus, the name “Airporter Stretch Coach” was born. After seeing the growing popularity of the vehicles, the movie industry immediately jumped on board. They used limousines to carry film crew and stage personnel around movie sets. During that time, limousines also became a common accessory for movie actors and actresses. You weren’t considered “it” unless you arrived in a stretch limousine.
Present Day
Although limousines were initially reserved for the rich and famous, now hiring a Denver limousine driver such as myself has become commonplace. At Presidential Limos, we have birthday limousines, graduation limousines, wedding limousines, night on the town limousines and prom limousines. even corporate limousines. We also cater to a business clientele with corporate limousines, airport meet and great limousines, and even jet charter services. Presidential Worldwide Transportation makes limousines an affordable way to travel. And when time is of the essence, we can speed you to your destination and avoid all the traffic snarls.
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