Wheelchairs have evolved and developed since their iterations as early as 1300 BC, with the first American patent issued in 1869. Over their lifetime, wheelchairs became lighter and more manoeuvrable. Wheelchairs used in the First World War utilized the changes brought about by the aftermath of the American Civil War. This included: bicycle wheels (wire-spoked) and the wicker back, legs, and seat. Both alterations to the wheelchair enabled it to become lighter, more portable, easier to handle, and more versatile.
Visit the Royal Newfoundland Regiment Museum to see the First World War Wheelchair that belonged to Lt Col Walter Rendell on display.
*https://www.civilwarmed.org/surgeons-call/wheelchairs/
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