Dennett Gig

The Dennett Gig was first used in England during the first part of the 19th century. It is similar to the Stanhope Gig in size and use, and both became popular about the same time. One difference is in their suspension systems. The Dennett has three springs while the Stanhope has four springs. The Dennett has one set of crosswise spring and two lengthwise springs joined by "D" links. This arrangement was said to be easier on the horse than the Stanhope, but not on the passenger due to the unequal motion of the gig. If the horse fell, there was a greater danger of being thrown out of the cart.

The shafts of the Dennett run outside the body and end at the rear on each side of the boot, whereas the shafts of the Stanhope are curved and completely encircle the body. Both styles of cart have a spindle-back seat with a boot for storage underneath. The Dennett is much lighter than the Stanhope.

There are two theories surrounding the name of the Dennett Gig. It was said to have originated with a coachbuilder named Bennett, but somehow the "B" became a "D." Each set of the Dennett's three suspension springs are said to have been named after each of the three Dennett sisters, known on the London stage for their beauty, wit and nimble dancing.

The Dennett Gig seen in the Winmill Carriage Collection was once owned by William Goedby Loewe, a close friend of Mrs. Winmill. Mr. Loewe's collection of carriages was left to Mrs. Winmill after his death. The Loewe crest can be seen on a spindle of the seat. Mr. Loewe traditionally had all of his carriages painted bright yellow with black trim.

The Dennett Gig in the Winmill Carriage Collection was restored by Earl Lloyd of Charlottesville, Virginia in 2000.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Berkebile, Don H. Carriage Terminology; A Historical Dictionary, 1978.
Smith, D.J.M. A Dictionary of Horse-Drawn Carriages, 1988.
Walrond, Sallie. Looking at Carriages, 1992.