Coupe Rockaway

The Rockaway originated on Long Island around 1850, developed from the design of the Germantown, an earlier rudimentary enclosed family carriage. Its most distinguishing feature was its extension roof, which afforded the coachman moderate protection from the weather. During the latter half of the 19th century, numerous styles of Rockaways were designed for both private and public use. This rockaway was sold to Mr. Marx Wintjin in 1871, custom-made for personal use by his wife, a sister of the donor's great-grandfather. It was used on formal occasions and for visiting family and friends. The original bill of sale, also in the Museum's collection, refers to this vehicle as a "Coupe Rockaway" for the cost of $725 and stipulates that it was "warranted 1 year on the Road or 6 months on the Pavements." The Rockaway was stored in the family's carriage house for four generations before it was donated by Mr. Joseph in 1960.