Founded in 1852, Wells Fargo was started to provide "express" banking services to California due to its rapid growth during the gold rush. Early on the company began undertaking the transfer of gold and mail from east to west and west to east, much of this done via stagecoaches or single riders prior to the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad. Due to their reputation for carrying valuables, including gold, these stagecoaches became desirable targets for bandits and desperadoes. Between 1870 and 1884 there were approximately 347 attempted or successful stagecoach robberies, leading Wells Fargo and other companies to send armed guards on their stages. These armed guards are believed to be the origin of the phrase, "riding shotgun". Wells Fargo gradually acquired more express companies through the end of the 19th century, including operating a portion of the Pony Express. From 1872 onward, Wells Fargo struck a deal with operate express services over the Transcontinental Railroad, and as the railroad expanded, the use of stagecoaches declined. These stagecoaches operated by Wells Fargo and many other companies not only carried goods and mail, but also passengers, providing one of the quickest and safest modes of transport in the American West prior to the construction of the railroad. Though the railroad began the decline of stagecoach use in the West, stagecoach lines continued to bridge the gaps between the railroad and final rural destinations into the early 20th century. This is a very well-made custom example of a Concord stagecoach, which is most easily identified by the long leather thoroughbraces, which were used as a form of shock absorber by suspending the passenger cabin of the carriage. It is constructed of primarily oak, with iron mountings and supports finished with black enamel. The wood on both sides just beneath the driver's seat is marked "U.S. MAIL", and the top edge of the carriage itself on both sides is marked "WELLS, FARGO & COMPANY". The carriage appears to be fully functional and is fitted with two yokes and a luggage rack on top which includes a few pieces of period style luggage. The carriage measures approximately 138 inches long from wheel to wheel, approximately 262 inches long including the shaft, a wheel base of approximately 62 inches, and approximately 94 inches tall including the rails of the luggage rack.