A major power method of completing work and traveling in the 1800's and early 1900's was the horse. Before the industrial revolution which brought trains, trolleys, and eventually cars and trucks to the Perkasie area, most farmers, manufacturers, local residents, and tourists relied on the horse to transport both people and their goods. Horses were considered a valuable asset by all people during these times whether used with saddle, carriage, or wagon.

Horse & buggy in Perkasie 1902.		Horse & buggy in downtown Perkasie.

A variety of businesses were needed for maintaining the work force of horses. Horseshoer / blacksmith, carriage maker, and other trades were typically found in Perkasie and surrounding villages during these times.

STAGECOACH LINE

On July 1, 1897, Harvey Stichler purchased the Sellersville-Buckville Stage Route from John Wenhold.. Mr. Stichler contracted with Mr. M.T. Weisel for two, two seated carriages.

On October 3, 1891 a daily stage line between Buckville and Sellersville was inaugurated. The stage was considered a convenience for Perkasie and surrounding communities. The stage left Bucksville at 6:00 a.m. stopping in Tohickon, Kellers Church, and the Elephant Tavern, reaching Perkasie by 9:00 a.m. and Sellersville at 9:21 in time for the Philadelphia train, which arrived at the city at 10:30 a.m. Returning over the same route, the stage left Sellersville at 11:03 a.m. with the arrival of the 9:45 train from Philadelphia.

By 1902 two stage coach lines left Perkasie every morning between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m.

LIVERY BUSINESS

A livery stable was a stable where horses were kept and rented for a fee. A large livery stable was located in the center of town near the Perkasie Railroad Station at the Perkasie / Union Hotel.

The livery business in Perkasie was influenced by Menlo Park. During the first half of Menlo Park's existence special coaches were built to transport picnickers to and from the town and farmers with hay wagons competed with the livery coaches.

HORSES TODAY

As mechanical means of transportation became more common, the use of the horse was gradually phased out over many years. During the year 2000 individuals who keep horses use them primarily for pleasure riding. Few are used for any type of work or transport. Throughout the Upper Bucks Mont area many horses are kept at stables for riding and jumping activities. Many local parks such as Nockamixon State Park and Peace Valley Park have horse trails for recreational purposes. Many private riding trails are also found throughout the Pennridge area.