Kasutusetõll

Kasutusetõll refers to a traditional Estonian horse-drawn cart or wagon. These vehicles were essential for rural life in Estonia for centuries, serving various purposes from transporting goods and people to working in fields. The design and construction of a kasutusetõll varied depending on its intended use and the region. Typically, they were robust and built to withstand the often challenging terrain and weather conditions of Estonia.

The main components of a kasutusetõll included a sturdy wooden frame, wheels, and a platform or bed. The wheels were often made of solid wood, sometimes reinforced with metal rims. The front wheels were usually smaller than the rear wheels to allow for better maneuverability. The platform could be simple or elaborate, with sides that could be raised or lowered for different loads. For transporting hay or straw, high sides were common, while for carrying lumber or stones, a flatter bed was more practical.

Specialized types of kasutusetõll existed for specific tasks. For instance, a "rehte" was a type of sledge or sled used for transporting hay or grain over snow, though it could also be adapted for use on wheels in warmer months. Another variation was the "kärum", a smaller, lighter cart often used for personal transport or carrying smaller loads. The harnessing of the horse was also an integral part of the system, with various types of yokes and harnesses used to connect the horse to the cart. The decline of horse-drawn transport due to the advent of motorized vehicles led to the eventual disuse of the kasutusetõll, though they remain an important part of Estonian cultural heritage and can still be found in museums and private collections.