Model of a Stagecoach Amsterdam-Ghent

Model Post Chaise Amsterdam-Ghent. Wood, c. 1825. Post coaches provided a means of public transport for passengers. In fact - despite the name - these had little to do with transporting mail. In 1822 a direct post chaise service was opened between Amsterdam and Ghent. This was made possible the previous year by the new road between Rotterdam and Antwerp. Improvement of the main highways had already begun under the French occupation. King William I considered construction and maintenance of roads a task appropriate to government. Large sums were reserved for the extension of the road network. Major highways were planned to link Amsterdam and The Hague with the (new) frontiers. The title 'koninklijk' (royal) and the royal crest on the coach indicate that the service was by royal appointment.