Horse Powered Snow Removal

Horse Drawn Snow Plow, Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL (1908)

As we rush to the grocery stores, clearing shelves for a potential snow-bound day or two, or waiting for plows in our cities and neighborhoods to rescue us, we pause to reflect when modern-day conveniences had not yet seen the light of day. . .

Snow rollers were utilized to 

pack down the powder for ease of travel.

The first patents for snow plows appeared in the 1840's, but it was several years later that the designs were built and in use.  

The use of horse-drawn snow plows on snow-clogged streets were first documented in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1862.  

Photo Credit:  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, from

"Snow Removal in New York City," in The Municipal Engineer, November 1915

The snow plows, of course, left the sidewalks and entrances to businesses blocked; therefore, horse drawn carts and shovelers hauled the plowed snow away.  The loads of snow were dumped in nearby rivers and sewers. Winter brought thousands of welcomed temporary jobs. 

Photo Credit:  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, from

"Snow Removal in New York City," in The Municipal Engineer, November 1915

Twelve Percheron horses pulling a 

snow sweeper in the City of Toronto ~ November 21, 1891.

Horses pulling a snow plow on 

Boston Common, Park Street-side (1920)

Photo Credit:  Wilson Alwyn Bentley