Limousines have been a symbol of luxury since the 1700's. The term "limousine" was actually coined in the region of Limousin, France and originally referred to the hooded cloaks that the carriage drivers wore to protect themselves from the weather elements when transporting prominent and wealthy businessmen. Even after the first automobile limousine was invented in 1902, the drivers continued to wear the hooded cloaks as their compartments were still exposed to the outside elements. Believe it or not, prestige was not the driving force behind the building of the first automobile limousines. It has been said that necessity is the mother of invention and this is especially true in the case of the limo! Limousines were originally designed as extended length cars that could carry "big band" leaders of the 1920's such as Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman. Because they traveled with their bands and equipment, the musicians needed a vehicle that was larger than a sedan and unlike a pickup truck, could protect all of their equipment from the elements. These early stretch limousines were often referred to as "big band buses" as they traveled around the United States. By the 1930's, famous movie actors and actresses began promoting the concept that the limousine was a status symbol of wealth and influence. No longer was it acceptable to simply arrive at a destination in a regular old 4-door sedan, but to make a grand entrance in a luxury stretch limousine was the ultimate statement! The 1940's saw limos become even more prominent in regular society as hotels began using them to transport guests to and from the airport in "airport stretch coaches". By the 1960's, following the assassination of President Kennedy, limousines were manufactured with bulletproof glass and body armor and continue to be used to transport important world leaders and government officials to this day. Even though today's limousines are light years away from the original horse-drawn carriages of the 1700's, the limo has still maintained its prestigious status with the iconic white or black stretch limousine being the epitome of luxurious transportation. Whether you're just looking for a simple and elegant ride to your destination, or wanting to have the time of your life in an entertainment-zone on wheels, there is a limo available for you! Business travelers continue to use limousines as a popular mode of travel to avoid the headaches of traffic and parking. Young women dream of arriving at the chapel in a limo on her wedding day, with all eyes on her as the chauffeur unrolls the red carpet and she begins her walk towards the alter. And of course, there is the growing trend of renting a limousine as the transportation of choice to the high school prom or graduation. No matter what the occasion is, the limousine continues to be a practical way to be transported from one location to another, allowing passengers the freedom to simply enjoy the ride in style. Need a limo soon? Book one with us today: 780-809-9960 Comments are closed.
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