Whatever Happened To…

people, places and things

Word Origins – Charley’s Horse

July30

If you have ever had a Charley’s Horse, you might have wondered where the term came from. Charles I of England, in 1640, decided to expand the London police force. The new recruits were nicknamed Charleys. Unfortunately, there wasn’t enough money to provide the new recruits with horses, so instead they had to patrol on foot. They would joke that their sore fee and legs came from riding Charley’s horse – walking all day.

posted under Word Origins

Email will not be published

Website example

Your Comment: