The first public sedan chairs in Scotland became available - On this day in Scottish history

Scotland's first public hire sedan chairs became available in Edinburgh on 19 October 1687. The chairs had become a popular form of transport for Edinburgh's wealthiest citizens - who had their own sedans, along with men to carry them through the steep city streets. The new fleet of six hire sedans were plain black with a covered roof and were an alternative form of transport to the horse and carriage.

QUICK LINK: For more on Edinburgh's history, see our Ultimate Edinburgh guide.

(image copyright Rijks Museum)