After 165 years of history and after becoming one of the symbols of New York, also immortalized in some of the most famous films set in the Big Apple, horse-drawn carriages could soon give way to electric vehicles.
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For over a century they have been the symbol of the most romantic New York. The horse-drawn carriages crossing Central Park have served as the backdrop for some of the most iconic scenes in cinema, from “When Harry Met Sally” to “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York“, helping to build the image of the American city in the collective imagination. Now, however, that 165-year tradition could be nearing its end.
For years there has been a heated debate in New York about tourist carriages. On one side are the industry operators, who consider them a historic and distinctive element of the city. On the other side are animal rights associations, who have long called for their abolition, arguing that horses should not work in urban traffic for their welfare but also for that of the tourists on board.
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The debate was reignited by the serious accident that occurred last June 17 in Central Park. An 18-year-old tourist, visiting New York with his parents and younger brother, died after being thrown from a horse-drawn carriage that overturned. The horse suddenly bolted, running uncontrollably until it collided with another carriage, also knocking down two other people.
According to reconstructions, the accident was caused by the coachman’s misconduct, who reportedly left the vehicle to photograph the family on board. After the incident, the horse, named Sampson, was retired after just six weeks of service, while the driver was suspended.
The episode came just days after the death of Deniz, another horse used in the Central Park carriage service, who died after ingesting a toxic plant.
For these reasons, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has expressed support for the abolition of horse-drawn carriages and stated he wants to work on a transition that protects both the workers in the sector and the welfare of the animals.
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