Question: I was rather surprised to look at the inventory in a 1744 Administration for my ancestor in Essex County, Massachusetts. This inventory listed a variety of things but was surprised to find he owned "2 fine chariots". In my expertise I think of chariots as something the Roman Soldiers used in battle. Can you explain what this was?
Answer: A chariot in the 18th century for a New Englander would not be the two wheel Roman chariot of a century ago. In this case it was a fancy four wheel carriage used by wealthy individuals. These were often driven by a coachman and required one or more horses.