> The type of stagecoach featured in many of John Ford's westerns was of the grander style of the large overland coach of Concord, New Hampshire. But most of the celerity and mud wagons that traversed the rough terrain across the Southwestern U.S. were more compact and often powered by mules that were adept in maneuvering through mountainous regions.

> Inside a typical stagecoach of the Old West, each bench measured roughly 50 inches lengthwise and accommodated up to 3 passengers per bench with an average of 9 passengers packed like dust-blown sardines. The uncovered bench at the front of the stagecoach was reserved for the driver and conductor.

> From the scorching daylight hours into the shivering cold nights, the stagecoach would travel with very few stops along the way. A passenger riding through the entire length of the stage-line route was known as a "through" traveler, and one that was only along for a portion of the ride was dubbed a "way" traveler. Passengers were able to bring carry-ons and other luggage as long as the items combined did not exceed forty pounds in weight per person. Luggage sat either on the lap of its owner or on top of the roof with any extra passengers.

> The stagecoach also doubled as a U.S. mail carrier, transporting parcels and mail that were kept underneath the driver's and passengers' seats or at the back of the coach. The mail was a top priority and well-guarded at all times.