Auto Factoids for Week of Sept 2nd

What went on in history this week in the world automobiles?

Frank Duryea drove the first car he built back in 1893 and just two years later almost to the day Duyrea Motor Co. Incorporated in 1895.

What was Frank driving?

a one-cylinder “Phaeton”

One year later in March 1896, Charles and Frank Duryea offered for sale the first commercial automobile, the Duryea motor wagon. Two months later, New York City motorist Henry Wells hit a bicyclist with his new Duryea. The rider suffered a broken leg, Wells spent a night in jail and the nation’s first traffic accident was recorded.
Frank went on to win the first car race.  A 54 mile event with the winner earning $2000.00.

The racing version!!!

 

The Duryea brother’s car evolved much like the rest of the cars of the era.

1905 Duryea Tourer

and

The 1913 Model C

Sept 4 was a big day for Ford.

First the founder Henry Ford was born in 1917 and 40 years later (1957) the Edsel when on sale.

1958 Edsel Corsair – Really..I don’t think they’re ugly.

 

Just few days later in 1954 Ford began producing the Thunderbird.

 

1954 T-bird

 

And finally for this week Sept 8 (or the 21st???)1903 was the day Preston Tucker was born in Michigan.  Best known for his car:

Way Kool!!!

But little known for his:

 

Armored Car and………….

 

…this fighter plan – The Tucker XP-57

 

Thanks for reading.

Tim

 

 

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