A leaf spring is a form of suspension on vehicles that dates back to medieval times, but it was British inventor Obadiah Elliott who patented in 1804 the method of mounting coach bodies on elliptical springs attached directly to the axles, replacing the traditional heavy perch. Before the investment in roads and a national network, goods were transported by pack animal or local cart forcing the carriages and carts to be limited to a horse’s walking pace. Ultimately there was a greater investment in roads and Elliott’s invention ensured stability and carriage travel became a safe smoother ride, subject to road repair and maintenance.