DOCTOR’S GIG
Body painted black. Trimmed in black leather.
The gig was an exceedingly light vehicle and in reality was only a chair fixed on shafts. Well adapted for traveling purposes, it was a favorite of doctors and businessmen.
Of particular note is the method of springing used in this gig. Two sloping members are bolted through the shafts to which are attached the suspension leather braces. This ingenious form of suspension is typically American and one which substituted for the heavier and costlier methods of springing.
This gig belonged to Dr. Zacheus Bass of Middlebury, Vermont, who practiced in Addison County from 1815 to 1881. He accompanied Vermont troops to Plattsburgh, and during 1814 assisted in caring for the wounded on Commodore MacDonough’s ship.
On loan from the Sheldon Museum, Middlebury, Vermont
