What is the history of the stairlift? More people are investing in a stairlift every year. We think that’s great! Stairlifts are a fantastic way of gaining back your independence. But did you know that the stairlift has been used by royalty?
Join us as we take a look at the interesting, royally linked history of the stairlift.
Royal Links
According to TV historian Dr. David Starkey, King Henry VIII used a device that essentially provided the same benefits of a stairlift. In a list of possessions that Henry VIII had, Dr. Starkey found what appears to be the first stairlift ever recorded. It was described as “a chair…that goeth up and down”.
This chair was installed to transport King Henry VIII up and down the 20ft staircase at Whitehall Palace. Although he is famously known for being obese, it was used to help the King get around after a jousting injury caused him mobility issues.
Using a rope and pulley system, servants would have hauled the King up and down the large staircase. That’s a system that we can definitely say has improved with the modern day stairlifts!
King Henry VIII was also said to own three wheelchairs to help him navigate his royal residences, whilst boasting a massive 30 stone in weight. He would definitely have benefitted from one of our heavy duty stairlifts!
The First Stairlift
The history of the stairlift is fascinating! Before Dr. Starkey’s find in 2009, it was widely regarded that C.C. Crispen invented the first stairlift in the 1920’s.
Crispen called his invention the “inclinator” and was created when a close friend had become ill and needed a way of easily moving up and down stairs. Years passed, and the Inclinator Company of America was born in the 1930’s.
These first stairlifts were mainly used by sufferers of polio; allowing them a safe and easy way to manoeuvre up and down a flight of stairs.
These stairlifts are more similar to modern stairlifts than that of King Henry VIII’s time. They boasted recognisable features – such as a folding chair and a footrest and they moved with the use of a track which attached to the chair via rollers.
The only update that is of note is the addition of wireless controls. This makes your stairlift journey more customisable and comfortable.
Cost Effective Mobility Aids
We can guarantee that the price of a stairlift is more affordable than what King Henry VIII would have paid out! They are also more readily available for installation in most homes! They no longer require the use of bulky pulley systems and strong servants to get you up and down your staircase!
More attractive features have been added as the design of modern stairlifts change. They adapt to the needs of the users. We can safely say even King Henry VIII would have enjoyed the luxury and ease of use of our modern day stairlifts! With user friendly controls, there is a stairlift out there for everyone! It’s quite interesting looking back on the history of the stairlift compared with today’s stairlifts!
With options for a variety of different staircases and usage, the stairlift is an excellent addition to any home. Whether you require a curved stairlift, or maybe a heavy duty stairlift solution – the possibilities are endless.
UK Stairlifts are on hand to provide some of the best quality stairlifts for sale. With various different models, we have a stairlift to fit all needs and requirements. From brand new models to reconditioned stairlifts – maintaining the quality and function of a brand new unit at a fraction of the price. Our stairlifts provide you with the mobility and freedom to navigate your home safely.
From its royal beginnings to its modern day models, the stairlift is a great addition to any home. If you would like more information, don’t delay in contacting our expert team members on 0800 046 3438 today.