5 Fascinating Facts on Limousine History

Throughout history, luxury travel has been at the leading edge of innovation for all forms of transportation. From the original limousines to the modern day stretch limo, there have been a lot of changes over the years. Here are some interesting facts about how this industry, and limousines specifically, have evolved over time.

1. The Origin of the Limousine

The concept of a luxurious and chauffeured ride dates back to the early 1700's, with horse-drawn carriages featuring ornate, covered compartments for passengers. The term Limousine is believed to have derived from the Limousin Region in France, as a result of local shepherds' cloaks resembling the covered driver compartments of early limousines.

2. The Rise of the Motorized Limousine

The first motorized limousines began coming onto the market in the early 1900's, with The Society of Automobile Engineers officially recognizing the term in 1916. They defined a limo as a car seating 3-5 passengers, with the driver's compartment outside. Early models looked very similar to horse-drawn models, with the main difference being the change in power production.

3. The First Stretch Limos

In the 1920's and 1930's, big band music and jazz groups were sweeping the music scene. These performers often travelled in large groups with all of their large instruments. In 1928, the company Armbruster created the first stretch limousine. These vehicles quickly became a favorite of the big bands and jazz groups, which led to them being referred to as "Big Band Buses".

4. Limos and Hollywood

After Armbruster debuted their first stretch limo, many companies followed. With companies like Rolls Royce and their early versions of the Phantom standing the test of time as well-known examples of the phenomena. For Hollywood, it was only a matter of time before this once practical form of transport for large groups, could be used as a medium to create grand entrances on red carpet events. Once the paparazzi of the time caught on to the trend, red carpets and limousines became synonymous as symbols of elegance and luxury.

5. The First Presidential Limousine

President Frank D. Roosevelt is widely regarded as the first president to ride in a limousine as a regular form of transport. His first official presidential limo, nicknamed "The Sunshine Special", was a 1939 Lincoln Model K series convertible. FDR often liked to ride with the top down, leading to the nickname. The vehicle was outfitted to meet US Secret Service specifications, with features like lights and sirens, a two-way radio, and wider running boards and extra handles to accommodate the Secret Service riding on the side of the vehicle. Rumors have also been circulating for years that after Pearl Harbor, seeking added security, Roosevelt used an armored Cadillac for transport. This Cadillac in particular supposedly having been seized from the notorious gangster Al Capone. Now a days, presidential limousines are heavily armored and include many added security features.

A Timeless Legacy Rolls On

From the early days of the horse-drawn carriage to feats of engineering like the modern-day presidential limo "The Beast", the limousine has continuously adapted to the changing needs of society. Though seen as a symbol of opulence and luxury by some, they have also served many a practical purpose throughout the years. Whether transporting a large group and seeking efficiency or heading to a special event such as a wedding or prom and looking to make a grand entrance, there is still a clear need for these vehicles. As trends change, and the needs of society grow, the luxury travel industry will clearly continue to be the leader in adaptation, ensuring its place on the road ahead.