Herdic Phaeton Company

Expanding on the success of Herdic's invention, which had increased in popularity since its launch three years earlier in Williamsport, Pennsylvania and had been used to create systems of inexpensive mass transportation in multiple major metropolitan across the United States,[1][2][3][4][5] Herdic Phaeton started operations in December 1879, and quickly became known for running plushly-upholstered carriages from 22nd and G Streets NW in Washington, D.C., along G Street and Pennsylvania Avenue to the Navy Yard.

Land was purchased at 10th and C Streets SE for the stables that would house the Herdic phaeton Company horses.

[8][9] In 1886, the Herdic Phaeton Company expanded its operations for the last time, establishing new lines along I and K Streets.

Immediately thereafter, the Herdic Phaeton Company officially and indefinitely ceased its operations.

[14][15] Two of the company's waiting stations, nicknamed "herdics", still exist on the Capitol grounds near the East Front.

Photograph of the first time a herdic cab was ever used in Washington, D.C.; photo taken circa 1888