Hints on Driving

by C. S. Ward

"Hints on Driving" by C. S. Ward is a practical guidebook on the art of driving teams of horses, published in the late 19th century. The author, known as the "Whip of the West," shares his extensive experience and expertise in horse driving, drawing from a rich career that spans various prestigious coaching roles. The book offers insights into the technical aspects of managing a horse team and emphasizes the importance of safety, skill, and the camaraderie of the traditional coaching profession. In "Hints on Driving," Ward details fundamental principles for novice and experienced drivers alike, covering topics such as horse selection, proper mounting techniques, the significance of maintaining balance and control while driving, and the usage of the whip. He intersperses practical advice with anecdotes from his own colorful experiences in coaching, painting a vivid picture of life on the roads of Victorian England. The narrative captures not only the mechanics of driving but also the spirit of the era, reflecting on the decline of horse-drawn coaching due to the rise of railways, evoking nostalgia for a forgotten time when skilled drivers commanded their teams with both precision and flair.