The first Concord stagecoach was built in 1827 by Abbot, Downing & Company in Concord, NH. Over the years, approximately 3,500 were produced. Weighing in at over two tons, they were sturdy and reliable. Leather strap braces under the bodies gave the stagecoaches a swinging motion. Leather “boots” front and back held baggage, mail and valuables. Inside, nine passengers sat on three leather-covered benches that offered very little legroom.

In 1868, Wells Fargo & Co. ordered thirty Concord stagecoaches. Painted bright red, the Wells Fargo stagecoaches were known to transport gold bars and coins, checks and drafts. They were subject to holdups by the likes of Black Bart and Rattlesnake Dick. To protect passengers and cargo, guards rode next to the driver with a shotgun never out of sight.