Cart

Object number2016.29.9

Date1910-1929

MediumWood/Metal/Rubber

Credit LineGift of Polk State Center

DescriptionTransport cart. Rectangular wood cart bed with one hinged sideboard on each side. A hinged door in the bed of the cart can be raised in graded levels to serve as backrest for the passenger. Chrome metal frame with springs. Pair of large gray rubber and metal spoked wheels at one end and pair of smaller gray rubber and metal-hubbed wheels at the other end; proper left large wheel has a manual break/stopping mechanism. Chrome metal handle at the end with small wheels. Dimensions36.813 x 25 x 61.313 in. (93.5 x 63.5 x 155.7 cm)
MarksPartial green metal maker plate on the exterior of one of the wood bed's short ends under the handle with text " 'D. IN U. S. A. SERIAL 5062 / THE COLSON CORPORATION, ELYRIA, OHIO / MODEL 4402X6".
Historical NotesThis transport cart was used used for the transportation and care of individuals with disabilities at Polk State Center. Many institutionalized individuals remained in these carts during their waking hours. Unlike wheelchairs, carts such as these did not facilitate independent movement. When Polk Center opened in 1897 it became the second institution in Pennsylvania built expressly to house and care for people with intellectual disabilities. The 2,000 acre site in rural Venango County allowed access to Pittsburgh via the railroad, but also isolated residents far from their families. Change in the care of people with disabilities over the past 100 years has influenced the lives of the residents and staff at Polk, as well as the surrounding community. This object is part of a collection that documents that important story. Label TextWhen Polk Center opened in 1897 it became the second institution in Pennsylvania built expressly to house and care for people with intellectual disabilities. The 2,000 acre site in rural Venango County allowed access to Pittsburgh via the railroad, but also isolated residents far from their families. Change in the care of people with disabilities over the past 100 years has influenced the lives of the residents and staff at Polk, as well as the surrounding community. These rare collections document that important story. These rudimentary vehicles, likely manufactured on-site at Polk, demonstrate the state of early care for the disabled people in institutional settings.

Related institution Polk State Center (founded 1897)

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