Livery stables were essential businesses in towns prior the combustion engine. They were places to rent a horse or board one. They offered delivery services for customers. A lot of livery owners got involved in the undertaking business as they traditionally moved the caskets. The livery was also a source of hay, grain, coal and wood. The stable attracted men and usually was the scene of nightlife which included gambling, animal fighting and other vices. Add to that the smell and varmin the stable attracted, and while an essential business, the stable wasn’t always welcome in certain parts of town.