1800s rules for stage passengers

Until the railroad steamed into Deadwood in late 1890, travelers came into the narrow gulch by wagon, on foot or on horseback, or as passengers in Concord stagecoaches, relatively comfortable transportation for the time. Coaches, suspended on leather straps that served as springs, swayed like a ship, sometimes causing seasickness for passengers crammed inside. Up to nine passengers could be seated inside the coach while second class travelers rode on top, along with baggage. The guard “riding shotgun” shared the seat with the driver who skillfully handled the reins for four or six-horse teams.

Some of the rules for proper stagecoach etiquette posted by Wells-Fargo might still be applicable for bus and auto passengers of today. 

1.      Abstinence from liquor is requested, but if you must drink, share the bottle. To do otherwise makes you appear selfish and unneighborly.

2.      If ladies are present, gentlemen are urged to forego smoking cigars and pipes as the odor of same is repugnant to the Gentle Sex. Chewing tobacco is permitted but spit WITH the wind, not against it.

3.      Gentlemen must refrain from the use of rough language in the presence of ladies and children.

4.      Buffalo robes are provided for your comfort during cold weather. Hogging robes will not be tolerated and the offender will be made to ride with the driver.

5.      Don’t snore loudly while sleeping or use your fellow passenger’s shoulder for a pillow; he or she may not understand and friction may result.

6.      Firearms may be kept on your person for use in emergencies. Do not fire them for pleasure or shoot at wild animals as the sound riles the horses.

7.      In the event of runaway horses, remain calm. Leaping from the coach in panic will leave you injured, at the mercy of the elements, hostile Indians and hungry coyotes.

8.      Forbidden topics of discussion are stagecoach robberies and Indian uprisings.

9.      Gents guilty of unchivalrous behavior toward lady passengers will be put off the stage. It’s a long walk back. A word to the wise is sufficient.