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Carriage Maker's Final Masterpiece for King Charles III
19 Sep
Summary
- A three-tonne royal carriage for King Charles III is nearly complete.
- The craftsman worked on the decade-long project despite a terminal diagnosis.
- The carriage features gold leaf and timber from Westminster Abbey.
Renowned craftsman Jim Frecklington, who passed away at 76, dedicated the last decade of his life to constructing a three-tonne carriage for King Charles III. This final project, the Commonwealth Royal Coach, is now approximately 98 percent complete, with Frecklington's team finalizing the details.
Frecklington battled cancer while working on this monumental piece, a project he financed partly by remortgaging his home. The carriage serves as a tribute to the British monarchy and the Commonwealth's history.
Its construction showcases exceptional craftsmanship, featuring hand-applied gold leaf and timber sourced from Westminster Abbey. This traditional design is enhanced with modern comforts such as electric windows and air conditioning.
Frecklington's lifelong passion for coachmaking began in his childhood in Parkes, New South Wales. His career included working with horses at Windsor Castle and in London's Royal Mews, deepening his connection with the British royal family.
He previously created significant royal gifts, including the Australian State Coach for Queen Elizabeth II's Bicentennial gift in 1988 and the Diamond Jubilee State Coach for her 80th birthday in 2006. The latter was used in King Charles III's coronation due to the Commonwealth Royal Coach's prior unavailability.
Frecklington's legacy includes three royal carriages and a reputation for meticulous, hands-on artistry. The completed Commonwealth Royal Coach will stand as a testament to his dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship.
