Horses were a common feature of Southampton's urban landscape for many years, but their era drew to a close in 1967 with the retirement of the last corporation horse.
Southampton Corporation was one of the last local authorities in the United Kingdom to employ horses for its operations.
The exact date of the Corporation's first horse-drawn vehicles is difficult to pinpoint, but it's likely that they were introduced in the late 19th or early 20th century. During this period, horses were the primary means of transportation and were used for a variety of tasks.
Horses pulled dust carts, collecting rubbish from homes and businesses
They were also used to haul materials for road repairs and maintenance and pulled horse-drawn trams for public transportation.
However, the 20th century saw a significant shift in transportation technology.
The advent of automobiles and improved road infrastructure led to a gradual decline in the use of horses for commercial purposes.
Southampton Corporation was no exception.
Automobiles were more efficient and could travel longer distances more quickly than horses.
The upkeep of horses, including feeding, stable maintenance, and veterinary care, was expensive and they could contribute to noise and air pollution.
Despite these factors, Southampton Corporation continued to use horses well into the 20th century.
The last horses were retired in the late 1960s, marking the end of an era in the city's history.
The retirement of the horses was a significant event for many residents, who had grown accustomed to seeing them on the streets.
Some of the horses were rehomed to farms or riding stables, where they could enjoy a more peaceful retirement.
Today, the history of horses in Southampton is largely forgotten, but it serves as a reminder of the city's past and the vital role that these animals once played in its daily life.
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