In the 1960s, a few dedicated individuals came together to form an organization which they hoped would foster interest and work to preserve the history of carriages. That organization became the Carriage Association of America. The bold dream of the twelve folks who met some sixty years ago was that fellow carriage enthusiasts around the country could be brought together to share their knowledge so that the history of these beautiful vehicles and the traditions they held so dear could be preserved for future generations.

Since its inception, the CAA has been a dynamic force in providing opportunities for its members and the public to learn and enjoy the collecting and the art of driving carriages. With a large offering of programing, the CAA meets its mission through its many and varied highly regarded programs.

Building on the CAA’s rich history, and its achievements over the years, the Endowment Committee has been tasked with setting the CAA up for another 60 years of success at achieving its important mission. I was honored to be asked to chair the Endowment Committee. The CAA has held a special place in my life since my involvement with carriage driving. The friendships I’ve formed through the CAA have grown into some of the most meaningful and lasting relationships in my life. I believe many in the ‘old guard’ share this sentiment just as I do.

Looking down the road with optimism and purpose, we recognize the tremendous opportunity an Endowment presents for the CAA. By establishing a stable, reliable source of funding—independent of annual fundraising—we can strengthen our foundation, support long-term planning, and weather future economic shifts with confidence. To realize this vision, we’ve set an inspiring goal: to raise five million dollars by the CAA’s 70th anniversary in 2032.

To those of us close to the Carriage Association, I sound the call to action: let us look boldly to the future and come together to propel the CAA down the road toward its next great chapter. Your passion, your commitment, and your generosity are the driving force behind everything we do. Together, let’s meet this moment with energy and purpose—and ensure the CAA thrives for generations to come.

~Richard C. V. Nicoll, CAA Endowment Committee Chair