The El Pomar Carriage Museum is a free and fascinating tribute to historical carriages and cars. The museum’s collection spans 13 motorized vehicles and 31 horse-drawn carriages, some of which date back to the first half of the 19th century.
Local entrepreneur Spencer Penrose’s wife, Julie launched the museum in 1941 with their own personal collection of carriages. See the 1841 Williamsburg Brougham carriage which was used in the inauguration ceremony of William Henry Harrison, the ninth President of the United States. Look over the black carriage that belonged to Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st US President.
Stand by the 1890 tailgate carriage that was used to ferry up to 20 passengers to sporting events. In the rear you'll see pull out coolers that used to contain food and alcoholic drinks. Among the other carriages is a pony cart for children and a hunting carriage with a built-in dog kennel.
View the 1928 Cadillac Limousine that was an anniversary present from Spencer to his wife. Look in the back of the car and you’ll see a speaker tube which allowed passengers to talk to the driver.
Go to the section dedicated to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. This is an annual motor race to the summit of Pikes Peak. Examine some of the vehicles that have participated, including a damaged car that took a tumble down the side of a hill.
The El Pomar Carriage Museum also houses some Native American artifacts such as clothing and jewellery. Spencer Penrose was invited into the Oglala Sioux tribe in 1921 and given the nickname White Eagle.
El Pomar Carriage Museum is open daily and admission is free. It is next to the Broadmoor Resort in southwest Colorado Springs, about 4 miles (6.5 kilometres) from the city centre. Visitors can use the resort’s parking garage for free with a validated ticket from the museum.
