The larger and wealthier households employed a Coachman, probably along with a groom.
Frequently the Coachman would be afforded accommodation close to the main house and stables, and he would be required to take care of the maintenance of any coach or carriage as well as the horses, and be available to drive whenever needed.
The Coachman not only had to be a proficient and careful driver, he also needed to be honest as he was entrusted with the purchase of good quality hay, straw and feed for the horses, and he needed an extensive knowledge of equine care. He had to be able to recognise and treat simple ailments, but understand too when more specialised help should be sought
If the Coachman was not lucky enough to have the services of a Groom then the total care of the horses and stables fell to him, as well as all the cleaning of the carriage/s and the tack.
When the household was large there were often several horses and ponies and many different carriages, and in this case the Coachman would have several stablemen or boys under him. He would supervise and organise the daily work and make sure that the horses were properly cared for and exercised if necessary; if any of the men failed to meet strict standards, or mistreated the horses, then the Coachman had the authority to fire them on the spot. He would also have a man whose sole job was to clean, repair and take care of all the harnesses, saddles and bridles.