Journal The Society of Automotive Historians, Inc.

Issue 247 Electronic September-October 2010

SAH President Susan Davis Drives a Stanley Mountain Wagon, page 2

Inside Date Reminders President’s Message 2 Book Reviews 11 October 8, 2010 Cord Complete SAH Banquet Letters 3 Hershey Country Club, Hershey, PA The Detroit Electric Scheme Josef Sodomka, Jr. 4 Miller-Meteor

Spring Meeting Minutes 6 Editorial 14

www.autohistory.org September - October 2010 1 gasoline engine to deliver as much Journal President’s Message power. The Rocket Racer set a land speed record in January 1906 of 127.7 The Society of Automotive Historians, Inc. Issue 247 September-October 2010 These dog days of summer are mph, a record that confounded internal Offi cers anything but sleepy for SAH. Six combustion until 1910 when Barney Susan S. Davis President months of soliciting, reviewing and Oldfi eld fi nally broke it in a Mercedes J. Douglas Leighton Vice President vetting the many SAH awards come by four mph. Robert R. Ebert Secretary to a head with decisions, sometimes Patrick D. Bisson Treasurer tough ones. Awards cover the best Tested by racing as it was, this Board of Directors English and foreign language books of engine was the obvious pick for Through October 2010 the year, the best article, the periodical Stanley’s truck-turned-bus. It takes Paul N. Lashbrook Stanton A. Lyman of the year, the library to be honored, a lot of power to move such a large Judith E. Endelman the Friend of Automotive History, and vehicle empty, let alone loaded with Through October 2011 non-print media and student paper passengers and their luggage, and then John A. Marino John Heitmann David M. Woodhouse awards. to climb 2,500 vertical feet for twenty Darwyn H. Lumley, ex-offi cio miles up dirt roads into the mountains. Through October 2012 Shortly, I will be contacting the As this old restoration came alive, it felt Steve Wilson Leslie Kendall winners and inviting them to the like a giant awakening. Thomas S. Jakups Awards Banquet at Hershey. And much time will be spent preparing for other The last person to work on and SAH Annual Awards aspects of the fall meeting as well. drive this car, in 1966, was one of the Benz Award, magazine article Bradley Award, research institution All this while we squeeze the last bits Deans of Steam, Maynard Leighton of Brigham Award, magazine of fun and activity from shorter and Winthrop, Maine. Maynard was my Cugnot Award, English language book shorter days, harbingers of the long fi rst teacher, making this especially Cugnot Award, Non-English book winter ahead. meaningful for me. When I started the Friend of Automotive History Stanley Museum in Kingfi eld, Maine, Ingersoll Award, non-print media For me, this means playing with steam in 1981, Maynard brought one of his Scharchburg Award, student paper cars any chance I get. My most recent several Stanleys the 45 minutes from SAH Journal adventure actually ties into Allan Winthrop to Kingfi eld to give rides Allan G. Y. Meyer, Editor, Adv. Mgr. Meyer’s recent article on trucks. Over to the Stanley family members there P.O. Box 1948 three days ending August 1, at the Seal for the occasion. Maynard assented to Vashon, WA 98070-1948 USA Cove Auto Museum near Bar Harbor teach me about these cars, so for the 206-304-3872 [email protected] and Acadia National Park here in next two-and-a-half years, I spent one [email protected] Maine, I led a steam team to get a 1914 day a week from spring till it was too Stanley Mountain Wagon running for cold in the fall learning from Maynard, Publications Committee Thomas S. Jakups, Chair the fi rst time in 44 years. an education I still credit with my love Christopher G. Foster for Stanley mechanics as well as Stanley D. David Duricy, Donald J. Keefe Stanley Mountain Wagons were built driving. Steve Wilson, Allan Meyer on a truck body, designed into a bus in 1907-08 by Freelan Oscar “F.O.” But that’s not my only truck story, the SAH Journal (ISSN 1057–1973) is published six times a year by the Stanley. He used these 9- then 12- other one also involves a steam vehicle. Society of Automotive Historians, Inc. passenger buses to transport people Around 1990, I was privileged to from railheads at 5,000 feet on the fi re—not drive, but fi re—an S-6 British Subscription is by membership plains of Colorado to the mountain Sentinel tipper truck from Woodstock in the Society. town of Estes Park at 7,500 feet, where to Bennington, Vermont, for the annual Membership dues are $40 per year. Stanley was building his now-iconic Bennington Car Show. On that two- Send dues, membership inquiries Stanley Hotel, best known today as hundred-mile round trip, I shoveled and changes of address to the inspiration for Steven King’s The 1,500 pounds of coal. The fi reman had Society of Automotive Historians, Inc. Shining. to watch steam pressure. providing coal 178 Crescent Road and water alternately. Exhausting work! Fairport, NY 14450 USA In addition to the truck body, F.O. ©2010 used the 30 HP engine designed for Yes, I did look like a chimney sweep The Society of Automotive Historians, Inc. the Rocket land speed record car of each day I fi red. Notwithstanding, Find the Society of Automotive Historians 1906-07. That engine has two 4 1/2- I count this high on my list of peak on the web at www.autohistory.org. inch x 6 1/2-inch bore cylinders in a steam experiences. Getting Seal Cove’s double-acting, simple (vs. compound) 1914 Mountain Wagon back under steam engine. Those two cylinders steam after a 44-year hiatus is my Copy Deadline for Journal 248 provide four power strokes; internal newest addition to that list! And both November 1, 2010 combustion needs an 8-cylinder of them trucks! —Susan Davis 2 SAH Journal No. 247 Electronic Edition wheel at different speeds when making a turn. Both wheels receive Letters power at the same time, but the one on the outside goes faster than one From Ed Benson on the inside. On the Cugnot and, This may be of interest to you. As a for that matter, every animal-drawn former resident of Flint, Michigan, I vehicle, none of the wheels are was noodling around on the Internet connected to any other wheel. On and found a fi lm called Partners in Via Robert Ebert modern front-wheel-drive vehicles, Progress produced as part of the November 13, 2010 — June 20, 2011. the differential is in the front, on rear General Motors 50th anniversary The Studebaker National Museum, drive vehicles, it is in the rear, and on celebration in 1958. If you are in conjunction with the League four wheel drive both front and rear interested in looking at it, here is the of Retired Automobile Designers, (with a third differential between the link: presents a look at what a modern- front and rear on some marques, such http://fl inthistory.com/general-motors/ day Studebaker might look like. Over as Volkswagen and Audi. -Ed.) general-motors-50th-anniversary-1958/ fi fty works created by members of Scroll almost to the bottom of the the League of Retired Automobile 2. The component set of king pin, page and click on the arrow. You will Designers will be shown in the steering knuckle, spindle, tie rod have 23 minutes of pure GM nostalgia. Museum’s AM General Atrium. and suspension had not yet been Enjoy! invented. On animal-drawn vehicles The League is a group of automotive (below) the front axle and wheels From Steven Rossi design veterans from Ford, General Couldn’t agree more with Susan Davis’ Motors, Chrysler, AMC, Studebaker message from #246: those who plan and Packard, and they are devoting ahead may have the ability to enjoy their years of design experience and smooth sailing, and those who don’t talents to present their interpretations may end up on a rocky road. And of what a 21st century Studebaker none of us are getting any younger! would be. The exhibit is being coordinated by former Studebaker Which is why we prepared a pamphlet and Ford designer Virgil Exner, Jr. in the Pierce-Arrow Society, Parting With Your Pierce. This small, self-help folder is being including in one of SAH members are invited to join our routine mailings with the idea of the Classic Car Club of America helping members and their families (CCCA) prepare for the inevitable. founded in 1952 to promote the www.pierce-arrow.org preservation and restoration of distinctive motorcars built between From Nelson Bolan 1925 and 1948. Here are my observations on the The club publishes its Bulletin eight discussions in Journals 245 and times a year and the quarterly Classic 246, especially about the Cugnot. I, Car magazine. too, always heard that the Cugnot were always at a 90 degree angle to The club maintains a museum and was intended as an artillery tractor, each other. There was a pivot or “fi fth research library on the grounds of designed and built by Captain Cugnot wheel” arrangement (above) attaching the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory of the French Army. the center of the front axle to the Corners, Michigan. fl oor or front frame, in the center of For membership details contact the club There are two reasons the Cugnot-type the vehicle being pulled. I am not vehicle could not be practical with aware of any pioneer automobile or all the mechanism on the one front horseless carriage being put on the wheel. As built it must have been a market with the center pivot or fi fth- real bear to steer. However, the two wheel arrangement. major automotive components yet to be invented explain why everything As soon as those two major at either of the addresses below. was on that one front wheel: components became available they 1645 Des Plaines River Road, Suite 7 were improved upon to where we are Des Plaines, IL 60018-2206 1. The differential, which allows the today, up to ball joints and torsion (847) 390-0443 drive axle to apply power to each bars, etc. www.ClassicCarClub.org

September - October 2010 3 Josef Sodomka, Jr.

During the inter-war period, Josef Sodomka, Jr. was able to transform his father’s company into one the best Czechoslovakian bodywork plants, and one which received great recognition even abroad. However, after World War II his talent and Above: 1937 Walter Junior. Bottom: 1939 Aero 50. entrepreneurial spirit had no place in Journey to the Top communist Czechoslovakia. tops. In 1930, Sodomka designed In June 1925, Sodomka junior his fi rst convertible body type for a Josef Sodomka, Jr. was born in returned to Vysoké Myto.´ But 30 chassis. In subsequent years Vysoké Myto´ to Josef and Katerina he clashed with his father over his convertibles on Tatra, Praga, Sodomka. The senior Sodomka operations of the stagnating fi rm. Walter, Jawa, Aero and many more on was from a village called Krouna His father fi nally agreed to orient foreign chassis enjoyed success not near Pardubice. After his studies the company towards the design, only with Czechoslovakian customers. and work experience he labored in construction and repair of car bodies. wheelwright companies not only in After fi nishing the fi rst body of After a property settlement in 1931, Trutnov, Jihlava and Prague, but also the Praga Mignon and a series of Sodomka junior became the sole beyond the borders of former Austro- wooden frames for the body of the owner of the company. This enabled Hungary. His goal was to implement Praga Piccolo, the program started him to further develop cooperation the knowledge and skills he had to develop well. From 1926, the and projects. Thanks to his personal acquired in his own company. In company offered its products under contacts with Dr. V. Kabesˇ from Aero, 1895 he settled down in Vysoké Myto.´ the name Sodomka Body Plant Vys. he began work a luxury body on an Thanks to his wife’s resources he Myto.´ It’s important to note that the Aero chassis. It was to have avant- founded his own plant for carriages, design and construction of car bodies garde elements in the style of French wagons and sleighs. was under the immediate infl uence companies Figoni & Falaschi from of Sodomka junior. The construction Boulogne-sur-Seine and Saoutchik. Shortly after the birth of Josef of car bodies used technological His work continued all the way to Sodomka, Jr. the small trades construction principles from the 1939 with the building of car bodies company changed into the East-Czech French company C.T. Weymann. for Aero called “Dynamic.” locomotive carriage manufacturer Sodomka didn’t focus only on body “J. SODOMKA, Vys. Myto.”´ The design and construction of personal Throughout the Thirties Sodomka, years 1906 to 1913 were the most vehicles, but also from 1928 on bus was successful in the areas of design successful. The fi rst world war, and utility vehicle bodies, mainly on and business. Under his leadership however, was a crisis for the Skoda,ˇ Praga and Walter chassis. personal, utility and even bus company and brought a downturn bodies were built. Many of them in all its activities. After Josef senior At the end of the Twenties there was were very bold designs but not all returned from the Mladá Boleslav an increase in demand for luxury made it to production, for example company Laurin and Klement, he convertible-type bodies. Sodomka the roadster body on the Rolls- trained his son as a wheelwright. responded to the demand and made Royce Phantom III chassis. Even so- Josef junior then furthered his new contacts with domestic vehicle called weekend caravans (camping knowledge at the school of carriage manufacturers. Most important was trailers) for cars were being built bodyworks in the Kasperˇ Mountains experience he gained at the Dresden and for a certain time there was also from which he graduated in 1922. bodyworks Gläser, which was experimental production of gliders. From 1923 to May 1925, Sodomka renowned for the construction of a New approaches and technologies junior also worked at the Mladá folding mechanism on convertible were refl ected in the construction of a Boleslav car factory, where he became acquainted with new trends in the design and production of car bodies. This acquired knowledge signifi cantly infl uenced his orientation towards future production programs at his father’s company.

4 SAH Journal No. 247 Electronic Edition full-metal body on a Lancia personal vehicle or the new constructions of bus bodies. In the second half of the Thirties, Sodomka’s bodyworks plant functioned over an area of 1922 square meters and had about 75 employees. At that time it belonged to one of the most important bodyworks companies in Czechoslovakia.

A Bitter End to a Legend Above: 1949 Tatra T600, later offered to Joseph Stalin. Below: 1934 Walter Regent. The establishment of the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia under German authority led to the suppression of many activities in Sodomka’s bodyworks company, including the designing of personal car bodies. Yet. there was an increase in the numbers of bus, utility and even trailer body designs. The design and construction of a Maybach luxury armored limousine for the Slovak Republic president Dr. Jozef Tiso was a prestigious commission for Sodomka and his entire bodyworks company in Vysoké Myto.´

After 1945, Sodomka was, while still leading the bodyworks company interested in other projects — the design of a people’s car, the establishment of a bodyworks school in Vysoké Myto,´ and preparation of special exponents of the company Above: 1938 Rolls-Royce 20/25. Below: 1934 Tatra T34. Bottom: 1930 Walter 68. Factory images via Silueta. for the XXVIII International Car Show in Paris in 1947. Sodomka’s activities continued after the nationalization of his company in 1948, with new organization, the preparation of a convertible body on the Tatra T600 chassis and also other car bodies. This continued until November 1950 when he was arrested and charged with committing economic crime and preparing to emigrate. Although charges were later dropped he couldn’t return to his original work. From 1953 he was employed at LIAZ in Mnichovo Hradisteˇ ˇ as a constructor and test engineer, but he couldn’t carry out independent creative work. After suffering physical and mental hardship, Josef Sodomka, Jr. died February 9, 1965, already forgotten by the public. —Jan Tulis

September - October 2010 5 Pres. Davis presented the President’s necessary to fi le Form 990 for 2009 SAH Business Report. with the Internal Revenue Service.

Society of Automotive Historians Kit Foster noted that in addition to the Upon motion by Doug Leighton, Board of Directors Meeting chapters listed in the President’s Report, seconded by Paul Lashbrook, the March 24, 2010 there are three other Chapters of the Board approved the Treasurer’s Tupelo, Mississippi Society including The Hoosier Chapter Report being fi led for audit. (Indiana), The Pioneer Chapter (New Present: Susan Davis, President, England and New York and New Jersey By consensus the Board wishes to Douglas Leighton, Vice President, area), and the Wisconsin Chapter. extend its thanks to Treas. Bisson for Robert Ebert, Secretary, Patrick Bisson, his extra work on the Form 990 issue Treasurer, Directors as follows: Judith Treasurer’s Report: Presented by and to have such wishes refl ected in Endelman, John Heitmann, Thomas Patrick Bisson. the Minutes. Jakups, Paul Lashbrook, Darwyn Treas. Bisson noted that the budget Stanton Lyman will consult with Lumley, Stanton Lyman, John Marino, approved at the Oct. 8, 2009 meeting Kit Foster regarding procedures for Steve Wilson, David Woodhouse projected a defi cit of about $12,000. proceeding with an audit.

Guests: Christopher (Kit) Foster, Projections at present are that added Fund Raising Report: Pat Bisson Arthur Jones income for the year will bring in about reported the fund raising appeal $20,000 and added expenses will be went well with over $7,000 netted Absent: Leslie Kendall, Director about $33,000. The overall defi cit for for the Society. In discussion it was the year is projected at about $13,000. reported that the appeal was world- However, with a current checking wide. The letter to the Europeans Meeting called to order at 9:07 AM by account balance of approximately made a reference that gifts to the President Susan Davis. $25,000, it is expected that SAH will SAH were tax-deductible in the U.S. President Davis called the roll fi nish the year in a positive fi nancial which caused a bit of embarrassment and determined that a quorum position. with the Europeans saying such was present. President Davis then information was irrelevant to them. It presented certifi cates of appreciation A discussion was held on the use of was decided that the wording of the to Arthur Jones, Past Secretary, and credit cards for the payment of dues to solicitation letters in the future should Darwyn Lumley, Past President. the Society. While bank processing fees be changed. Also, by consensus it amount to about 17 percent of credit was decided a thank-you message for Upon motion by Paul Lashbrook card revenues, by consent, the Board the results of the appeal should be seconded by Douglas Leighton, agreed that is a necessary expense to published in the SAH Journal. the Minutes of the October 8, 2009 accommodate the Society’s foreign meeting in Hershey, Pennsylvania membership, many of whom prefer to Membership Report: From Don were approved. Upon motion pay by credit card. Keefe. A general discussion of the by Thomas Jakups, seconded by report occurred. It is the consensus Judith Endelman, the minutes of the At this time, there was general of the Board that development and electronic meeting of January 8-13, agreement that a dues increase to publication of the new Roster should 2010 were approved. $50 should be considered to cover be expedited. President Davis will various costs including the costs of discuss the matter with Don Keefe. Pres. Davis reported that a draft of an the publications. Treas. Bisson will Discussion also occurred on the idea offi cial policy on electronic meetings fi le a change of address form with the of having renewals be automatic. had been developed by Secretary Internal Revenue Service. It was pointed out that a benefi t Ebert. A draft of the policy is attached of having members fi ll out the to these minutes and will become Treas. Bisson will fi le the necessary membership form each year is that policy unless there is objection. There address change to start the paperwork data can be kept up-to-date. being none, the policy on electronic meetings will be as attached.

Sec. Ebert noted that in the upcoming review of the By-Laws that the possibility of Special Meetings held electronically needs to be inserted into the By-Laws in Article VIII, Section 2.

6 SAH Journal No. 247 Electronic Edition Membership Committee: Letters have Stan Lyman said he will explore Bradley Award: Judith Endelman been sent to former members who the possibility of having a tour of reported the committee has been have not renewed in the past three Racemaker Press for interested reconfi gured with the addition of years. About 200 letters were sent to attendees at the 2011 AHA meetings. Mark Patrick, Manager of the Revs the USA and Canada, but the response Institute for Automotive Research, was only seven percent. Archive Committee: Kit Foster being very pleased to be asked to said his talk at the Conference on be a member. James Wagner, past Because there is no uniform address Saturday, March 27, 2010 will include chair, has agreed to stay on the for the Society, Pat Bisson’s address, discussion of what should be in a self- committee. A call has been put out as Treasurer, is being used for normal help brochure about disposition of a for nominations. membership renewals. collection. The brochure will include material for those seeking to dispose Ingersoll Award: Arthur Jones Academic Committee: John Heitmann of materials and information for those reported that so far there have been reported that the SAH Session at seeking to buy materials. no nominations for the non-print the American Historical Association media award for 2009. Nominations meetings in San Diego in January Nominating Committee: Darwyn are open to June 1, 2010. 2010 went well. Good papers were Lumley reported that the term of three presented by some recent authors of people is ending this year – Judith Friend of Automotive History Award: automotive history including some Endelman, Stanton Lyman, and Paul Darwyn Lumley stated nominations younger authors. John Heitmann Lashbrook. All three have agreed to are needed for this year. observed that automotive history is stand for re-election. Ballots should Student Paper Award: Robert moving toward cultural history as well be in the July-August edition of the Ebert reported that letters and as of histories of autos. Journal. Darwyn Lumley mentioned announcements of the Scharchburg that it will be important to the future Award for 2010 were sent in October of the Society to have some younger The 2011 AHA meetings will be held in 2009 to about 200 graduate schools people start running for offi ce to gain Boston in January 2011. with appropriate graduate programs. name recognition to eventually be Follow-up e-mails were sent to elected to the Board. John Heitmann raised the question academicians in SAH during February of whether the Society could provide 2010. Deadline for submissions of Awards Committee Reports: a small stipend of $200 to presenters student papers is June 10, 2010. John Brigham Award: no report from Leroy at the AHA meetings coming from Heitmann will be assuming the Chair Cole. foreign countries to help them defray of the committee after this year. travel costs. After discussion, it was Cugnot Award (English language): decided the possibility of a subsidy for After discussion it was decided Douglas Leighton reported that ten foreign presenters of papers will be that the awards should be listed books to be reviewed have been explored. John Heitmann will discuss in the Journal on a regular basis. received for 2010. with the AHA whether it has travel fees Tom Jakups agreed to talk with the available. Cugnot Award (Foreign language): Journal editor, Allan Meyer, about this Bill Kreiner accepted the Chair of the suggestion. committee. He reports that twelve books have been received for review Publications Committee: Chair Tom in 2010. He has requested that a fourth Jakups reported that Editor Meyer judge profi cient in Slavic languages is working to get the Journal on be added to the committee. He also schedule, and appears now to have accomplished that goal. As you might expect from a club publication, the asked for consideration of increasing Horseless Carriage Gazette is chock full of exciting the number of awards because of Chair Jakups indicated it is important four-color photographs showing brass-era automobiles the large number of entries. Pres. in action. First-generation cars don’t get out often but, to reach out to the membership to Davis suggested using Motormail as a when they do, it is a real privilege to be along for the contribute articles and information for ride. means of soliciting people with Slavic the Journal. History buffs will enjoy a feature or two in each language ability. It was also suggested Horseless Carriage Gazette about marques both popular and obscure. In addition, more than 240 black that a notice be put in the Journal. Tom stated that the tradition of the & white images from the pre-1916 era were used as President’s Report in the Journal is an illustrations in the six 2007 issues. Benz Award: Don Keefe has sent word important one, and he recommends Membership is $45 ($55 outside of the USA). that he is soliciting articles for review. it continue. Kit Foster, editor of the There is no better place to connect with nearly 5,000 Other members of the committee enthusiasts who appreciate pioneer vehicles than in the Automotive History Review, reported Horseless Carriage Club. We’ll be honored if you decide present agreed to work with Keefe to to join. that it is not on schedule. Horseless Carriage Club solicit more articles. Horseless5709 CarriageOak Ave Club PO BoxTemple 62, BakersfieldCity, CA 91780-2431 CA 93302 888/832-2374(888) 832-2374 or [email protected] www.hcca.org September - October 2010 7 The learning curve for editing the Discussion occurred on having an 120 with 40 from SAH was considered Review as a peer-reviewed journal is online version of the SAH Directory/ normal. So, the decline in attendance steep, despite his having done this Roster available. The primary is primarily a result of a decline before. concern of the board is security for in NAAM attendance which may the information in the directory. By be attributable to cuts in museum He is working on laying out the text of consent the Board stated that even budgets. the journal himself which will save the if an online directory is established, Society a signifi cant amount of money. there should always be a print copy Conference locations are a result of In terms of formatting the Review, he available, even at an extra cost to an automotive museum inviting the wants to eliminate endnotes and move members desiring a print copy. conference. NAAM is talking about in the direction of the APA (American soliciting invitations aggressively from Psychological Association) format. museums. Silent Auction Report: Leroy Cole He observed that he does not have has asked to be relieved of the The Board, by consent, commended the large collection of illustration responsibilities of the Silent Auction. Arthur Jones and Judith Endelman material that Taylor Vinson had and Pat Bisson mentioned that Leroy Cole for their organizational efforts will have to rely on authors to provide stated that Cora may have the Silent and planning of an excellent 2010 appropriate illustrations. Auction fi nished by today, Wednesday, Conference. March 24, 2010. President Davis asked David Duricy’s report on the Web Site that the Board consider and offer Chapters & Sections Report is attached. Tom Jakups presented the suggestions for persons who would be Web Site report. willing to assume responsibility for the Kit Foster and Patrick Bisson reported Silent Auction. on the Leland chapter rejuvenation. In a general discussion, the Board Leroy Cole was instrumental in agreed that the virtual world does rejuvenating and reorganizing the not cover all things. The discussion NAAM/SAH Conference Report: chapter which met at the Ypsilanti also considered what is appropriate Arthur Jones and Judith Endelman Automotive Heritage Museum and content for the SAH web site. It was presented the report. Because of Miller Motors Hudson recently. John agreed by consent that the web site delays incurred in some aspects of the Jos. Jendza (Top Hat John) was needs updating. It also was pointed conference, particularly with respect elected Director and Jim Petersen was out that David Duricy and Don Keefe to development and mailing of the elected Associate Director. are facilitators of the web site from brochure, it is recommended that a a technical standpoint. We have to conference manual be developed to David (Woody) Woodhouse provide the content. guide future committees. submitted the attached report on the Southern California Chapter. After considerable discussion A very positive aspect of the The Southern California Chapter stimulated by a recommendation from 2010 Conference is that the local is publishing The Historian. The Arthur Jones, Paul Lashbrook moved coordinators and supporters of the chapter has 149 members, however and John Marino seconded a motion Conference have worked to keep costs 45 are not members of the national to have an editor for AutoHistory.org. low. SAH. Because the foundation of the Further discussion ensued and it was chapter is motorsports, it is likely agreed that an editor should create a It was suggested that in the future, that many of the chapter members partnership between the technical and to attract presenters and speakers to will join the SAH Motor Sports content managers of the web site. the conference, the venues for the Section and will then will need to conference should be close to an air join the SAH. The Directors agreed The motion being put and seconded, hub. by consent to the recommendation the vote was taken and the motion of Woody Woodhouse that we do passed unanimously. Thereupon, Registration for the Conference is nothing at the present time about Pres. Davis appointed the Publications 95 with 39 being SAH members. For the chapter’s members who are not Committee to take up the development previous Conference, attendance of of a job description for the SAH web site editor and the search for a qualifi ed volunteer to assume that role.

Discussion occurred on the possibility of paying for membership dues online. By consent it was agreed to consider PayPal for the online payment option. Pat Bisson will investigate the Pay Pal option.

8 SAH Journal No. 247 Electronic Edition national members and wait to see what the functions of foreign chapters, people are not interested in auto happens with the Motor Sports Section. and the availability of someone who industry history. But, it is hoped to could serve as an Ambassador-at- get people involved by asking them Discussion of the “quiet chapters” Large, President Davis observed that to tell their auto industry story as they including the Wisconsin, Hoosier, and at the present time the SAH is not in lived it. Judy Endelman noted that the Pioneer (New England, New York, a position to appoint an Ambassador- Ford Motor Company is interested in New Jersey) chapters. After discussion, at-Large, but that it is an ongoing industry history, possibly because of Vice President Leighton was assigned concern. In the interim, on the advice the family’s continued involvement the task of contacting these chapters to of Kit Foster, it was decided that at in the fi rm. She also reported that offer support and encourage activities. the October meeting in Hershey the the rumor that Chrysler destroyed Board will need to fi nd out who is reports and records are absolutely Kit Foster reported on the British going to the Paris meeting in 2011 and false – they are being maintained Chapter which has 150 members. It make appropriate arrangements for electronically and there is a Chrysler has semi-annual seminars, a quarterly representation, presentations, etc. archivist. newsletter, and an annual glossy publication entitled Aspects of Motoring International Motor Sports Section A Centennial Certifi cate was History. It is a well-functioning chapter. report from Patricia Yongue was read presented in honor of the Cole It has evolved from being viewed as a by Pres. Davis. By consent the Board Company at the orphan car show in group primarily interested in American wishes the minutes to express its Michigan. cars into a chapter seriously interested appreciation for the excellent job Pat in automotive history. Kit Foster Yongue has done in stepping into a Kit Foster reported on the disposition was asked by the Directors and he leadership position in the Motor Sports of the Taylor Vinson Automotive consented to continuing as the primary Section. Literature Collection. Pursuant to liaison of SAH to the British Chapter Taylor Vinson’s will, the Hagley because he understands its culture and Hershey Banquet Report: John Museum staff sorted through the travels there frequently. Marino reported that the Hershey materials, kept and removed what Country Club charges us a 19 percent they wanted, and in the end, about At the request of SAHB Chairman service charge and 6 percent tax 30 boxes of material are available for Malcolm Jeal made to President making the added cost of a dinner the SAH use in the Silent Auction. Davis directly, discussion of the for the annual meeting in October 25 In discussions with Leroy Cole the British Chapter was followed by a percent over the menu price of the possibility of having a separate general discussion of whether SAH dinner. After discussion it was agreed Silent Auction for the items from the should have an SAH Ambassador- that we should continue with the Taylor Vinson Collection is being at-Large to coordinate with foreign “German Buffet” dinner option to keep considered. Art Jones offered to assist chapters and members. Taylor Vinson the cost of the dinner at a reasonable Kit Foster in sorting and cataloging had functioned in that role on an $40 which will include tax and gratuity. the materials. informal basis, but did it very well As in the past, the fi nancial part of due to his multi-lingual capabilities the dinner will be handled by Treas. New Business and his diplomatic approach to Bisson. Information on the Annual matters. After an extensive discussion Meeting at Hershey will be in the July- Pres. Davis stated that the By-Laws regarding attendance and cost at the August Journal. John Marino asked if it need to be reviewed. After discussion, Paris meeting during Retromobile, could also be included in the May-June and upon motion duly made by issue. Douglas Leighton, and seconded by Tom Jakups, that a Task Force be Hershey Tent Report: Paul Lashbrook created, chaired by Paul Lashbrook, reported that this year we will have and consisting of the offi cers of the spaces through Pat Bisson. The SAH, the Directors voted unanimously expected spaces will be OBD 16-19. for approval. Paul Lashbrook asked Paul Lashbrook is going to investigate that offi cers read the By-Laws and the possibility of having a tent with make recommendations for revisions transparent sides to improve visibility to him by May 1, 2010. of the SAH and will investigate pricing for additional signage. Pres. Davis discussed briefl y the issue of Long Range Planning and stated Old Business that will be a task for the Executive Committee. Pat Bisson reported he is trying to get former auto industry salaried people Upon suggestion by Douglas involved in SAH. He has given a talk to Leighton, it was agreed by consent the Leland Chapter and will be talking that the SAH should reimburse to the Buick Salaried Retirees Club. members of the Cugnot Committee The problem is that often auto industry for expenses incurred in shipping

September - October 2010 9 SAH Business What Is It? the books to each other when and if requested by members of the committee, as they often simply absorb those expenses personally.

Vice President Leighton invited the offi cers to London, Ontario for the Spring 2011 Directors Meeting. By consent, the invitation was accepted for the April 10-13, 2011 period.

A general discussion was held regarding the use of the money from the Special Appeal. It was decided that listing activities and publications of the SAH and using the term “to fulfi ll its mission” should be suffi cient explanation in future letters of appeal. Upon motion duly made by Douglas Leighton, the meeting was adjourned at 3:50 pm. 1930 Darmont Morgan Sport Aero Roadster. Brothers Roger and André Darmont took over the distributorship of Morgan cars in France in 1919. By Respectfully submitted, 1925, the brothers acquired a license to produce the Darmont Morgan. They Robert R. Ebert, introduced a racing version called the Darmont Special. This version became Secretary so popular that Darmont offered it to their clientele, equipping the cars with fenders and headlamps. Roger Darmont did his own body styling and built his own engines. By 1935 he created a four-wheeled vehicle.

ight years in the making, The Greatest Auto Race Eon Earth is now available on DVD, telling the story of the 1908 New York to Paris auto race.

Through never before seen photos and exact running replicas of the Thomas Flyer, German Protos, and Zust, the story of these brave men and their machines is told as they travelled 22,000 miles in 169 days.

With stunning cinematography and cutting edge computer graphics, we look at the hardships and accomplishments of such heroes as George Schuster, Lt. Hans Koeppen, and the popular Italian, Antonio Scarfoglio. Mastered to HD, this 95 minute program has already garnered numerous NEW YORK TO PARIS - 1908 awards.

Use PayPal and order online at www.thegreatestautorace.com or send your name and address with a cheque or Money Order for $35.44 ($29.99 + $5.45 S/H) to The 1908 Great Auto Race Film Company Ltd., #202, 10816A-82 Ave., Edmonton, Alberta. Canada. T6E 2B3

10 SAH Journal No. 247 Electronic Edition classes at Art Center, though not to production, is remarkable in itself. It is Book Reviews the point of fulfi lling all requirements a labor of love.” Cord Complete to graduate before embarking on his career, fi rst with the McCann-Erickson Richards had gone on to perfectly describe the narrative found between By Josh B. Malks ad agency’s San Francisco offi ce the book’s 14-inch-wide covers as I Jericho Publications, 2009, 304 pages, and eventually establishing his own discovered after reading it for myself. 627 b/w & 99 color illustrations, 14” x independent agency. Pease provided As I can’t improve on his description, 10” hardbound with hardside slipcase overall art direction for the book while that too is now shared with you: “It is List Price: $159 graphic design was handled by William an intense study of American industrial ISBN-13: 978-0-615-28691-4 Evans, who confesses that sailboats imagination and innovative automotive www.cordcomplete.com are his motive passion but working on the book has brought him to a deep design (being done) at a time when the industry had barely recovered from Cord Complete emulates the marque it appreciation and enthusiasm for Cord the effects of the Great Depression. chronicles in an ironic, yet unintended, as well. The design concepts and ideas had way. As with the cars themselves, the Between them Pease and Evans been developing for years in the minds book has enduring worth and value. created especially pleasing pages, both of Gordon Buehrig, who designed Both are beautiful examples of their as to appearance and lucid content the body, and Roy Faulkner, who respective crafts. And each, bowing to organization. Sidebars offer material as president of Auburn Automobile fi nancial constraints and the calendar, and images that enhance the main text. Company supported Buehrig’s concept falls short of the desired perfection. And footnotes are usefully placed on at a time of very tight fi nances for the each page-pair wherever applicable company. Then too there were the To be sure, none of the book’s thus saving the reader from having resourceful minds of Auburn engineers shortcomings are of a serious factual to fl ip to a section at the rear of the Herbert C. Snow, who was responsible nature for the history has been book, thence back to the main text. for the front wheel drive design, and researched and documented. The And there are subtleties that are fun Harry A. Weaver, who designed the presentation is both clear and pleasing, to discover. As an example, a glance transaxle. Each employee contributed but would have benefi ted from another at the period photos of the Auburn, his share with the result an automotive thorough proofi ng, preferably from Indiana, showroom and you realize that design concept, imperfect and defi cient “fresh eyes” to catch typos, missing-but- it is that fl oor’s pattern that decorates in many respects, yet advanced and intended referrals to other pages, and the hardside slipcase in which the book ahead of its time.” other similar oversights. This reviewer resides when not being read. would have appreciated the inclusion Cord Complete completely captures of a bibliography, but with 304 pages This reviewer in no way pretends to and presents it all, clearly and in a already packed with information, be expert in Cord history or lore to be most readable fashion, from the “bigger along with the 626 black-and-white able to judge the accuracy of the book. picture” of events in the surrounding images and 99 color plates, it’s an It is telling however to look at the world to the Cord-specifi c events and understandable omission, especially list of names who were consulted for story. There are newly found and when one takes into consideration the materials and/or comments. published images of Ab Jenkins running specifi cs and detail contained in the 30 the Cords at the Indianapolis Speedway pages of appendices. Then too there are words written by in 1937 as well as a chapter on other Cord Complete is an amplifi cation of Jonathan Richards, used here with later-produced vehicles whose very author, Cord scholar and owner Josh his permission. As an acknowledged design and existence were inspired Malks’ earlier book and, as he puts it, is and knowledgeable Cord afi cionado, by the Cord. Individuals particularly “an expansion, an upgrade, a revision, Richards commended this book to signifi cant in preserving Cord lore as a correction of all that was contained in me to read and review: “It is a very well as cars are acknowledged as well, The Timeless Classic. In its day Timeless scholarly study of the industrial and there are photos of owners with was considered by others to be the design and general history of the Cord their Cords whose names and faces best book on the Cord to that time. But Models 810/812. The thrust and aura don’t require a caption to identify ordinary. For Cord Complete I started of Malks’ newest utterance is guided them. Then there are the color plates with the notion of not only the best, by his intense desire to be accurate of original artworks that feature Cord most comprehensive book on the Cord and to provide the detailed evidence created by a variety of accomplished ever, but also the most beautiful.” and documentation to support the artists. information presented. That anyone In order to achieve that “most could or would expend this colossal This is, in the estimation of this beautiful” goal, Malks engaged the effort to write a book about a hastily reviewer, one of those books that time participation of two others, both design designed and produced automobile, will rightly judge and determine is the professionals. Cord owner/afi cionado of which slightly fewer than 3,000 seminal work on its topic. Robert Pease confi rms he attended units were built in the two years of —Helen Hutchings September - October 2010 11 into the plot line. Without a Detroit Book Reviews Electric at hand I can only say these The Detroit Electric Scheme sections are very believable.

By D.E. Johnson Critical to the plot is the Detroit Electric Minotaur Books, New York, First factory itself. Specifi c areas relevant to Edition: December 2010, 310 pages. the plot include the metal shop, battery ISBN 978-0-312-64456-7, $24.99 room, offi ces, parking garage, security operations, and various protocols. A I was very pleased to be given the large hydraulically operated metal press opportunity to review this book. Like is described that is used to stamp the many of you I have been known to one-piece aluminum roof panels. As watch a fi lm simply to see a rumored best as I can determine, without an automobile sequence that might only enclosed Detroit Electric from 1910 to last 15 seconds and being an avid inspect, Detroit Electrics of this period, reader this book proved to be much in fact, most cars of the period, did not more than the literary equivalent. have metal roofs and aluminum being This proved to be the fi rst such book a soft metal would not require a large that was interesting since one of the press. My attempts to verify one way or “Monsieur Pamplemousse” books by the other if aluminum roofs were being Michael Bond in which a Citroën 2CV the major characters. The actions of used on Detroit Electrics in 1910 lean provides entertainment as well as these fi gures are fi ctional but care toward a “no” based on discussions transport. was taken to keep them consistent with friend who is a fan of the early with what is known about their electrics, but I was unable to come up The Detroit Electric Scheme is a classic lives and habits. The bulk of the with anything in print or photos that gothic murder mystery. The author characters were real people and the was defi nitive. Most photographs from has taken the pains to write the book starts with a plausible situation the period were taken from below text, and even the title, as it would and lets the characters run with it. the level of the roof and this it is not have been written in 1910, bringing The supporting characters include visible. to mind the moralistic “Auto Boys” historical and automotive fi gures books for teenage boys from about such as the Andersons of Anderson The emerging city of Detroit itself also 1903, with some vocabulary that Electric, later named Detroit Electric, plays a role. The early development is now out of common usage, and Edsel Ford, the Dodge brothers, etc., of the city, the street-car system, new with a near singular use of vulgar The story contains a splattering of housing tracts, ethnic neighborhoods, exclamations. However, this is not references to Thomas Edison, his new entertainment palaces, bars, restaurants, to say that portions of the book are electric battery and his campaign to various industrial parks, and the not uncomfortably graphic, as some demonstrate the dangers of AC power emerging downtown provide both a certainly are. in order to promote his patented DC varied background for the action as power system. well as for a Sunday drive. Here again, The automobile, industrial competition, care has been taken to describe these intrigue, deceit, labor unions, bribery, One odd thing that stood out in as they were in 1910. coercion, murder, alcoholism, the book was that as every new smoking, sex, drugs, prostitution, character is introduced or returns to This book is perfect for the car fashion, morality, integrity, loyalty, the action, there follows a detailed enthusiast who is also an avid reader. responsibility, retribution, fate, and of paragraph on the character’s attire. For I highly recommend it to anyone course the Mafi a all have a role to play both the men and women this is all interested in the automobiles or society and a point to make in this mystery. described as would be expected with of the early 1900s. All of the details that The action plays out like a Greek discussion of period clothing items and I was able to research were accurately tragedy with the inevitable truths and contemporary fashion sense. portrayed, including such details as the fate guiding the characters to their music being played in the bars. The unavoidable ends. This is the kind of As for the automobiles, the major “advance uncorrected proof” provided book where you know and understand player is of course the Detroit Electric, for this review contained few, if any, the characters and can feel for them, in 1910 still “Anderson Electric.” errors. However, the binding on this but really never develop empathy with However both Oldsmobile and Ford paper-back copy did not fare well. In them. automobiles have their roles as does the fi rst reading pages simply came the competition from Baker Electric. out in my hand as they were turned. An interesting twist with this mystery Many details of the body styles and Presumably this will not be the case is doing all of this storytelling with operation of the Detroit Electric are with the fi rst printing, which will be real historically accurate people as given and these are well integrated hardback. —L.G.H. Sarmanian 12 SAH Journal No. 247 Electronic Edition Miller - Meteor: The Complete the best of the early builders, the Illustrated History Meteor Motor Car Company and the A.J. Miller company. They were By Thomas A. McPherson later merged into the Miller Meteor Published by Iconografi x, 2010. division of the Wayne Corporation, ISBN: 978-1-58388-258-0 after its acquisition of the two 334 pages, $79.95. companies in the 1950s. The book begins with a wonderful history of American attitudes on death and the Meteor motor company and its funerals have changed over the last various ventures, followed by an one hundred years. During the Civil equally comprehensive history of the War undertakers started to embalm A.J. Miller company. It covers fully bodies so they could be sent home. the products, of both companies and This was mostly done for offi cers as it is wonderfully illustrated with photos was expensive to do this. As the 19th and charts. It covers not only funeral century progressed embalming became equipment but also the important much more common allowing for more In the last century, a really top end ambulance business as well. There elaborate funerals even for the middle undertaking establishment wanted to are price lists by year and, and a nice classes. have the latest chassis and designs section at the end of the book with for their customers and ordered color photographs. the reproduction At the the beginning of the 20th every several years. The result was of which is good but not exceptional. century funerals were more elaborate, that many of these coaches were This is only a minor criticism as there with great attention paid to all the destroyed, after all who wants an old inclusion is noteworthy and helps details of a “proper” display, both to funeral coach? bring to life these extraordinary honor the deceased and uphold family vehicles. honor. The gangster funerals of the Fortunately, in the last years of the 1920s are a case in point. It should 20th century collectors have emerged It is a fi ne book. Mr. McPherson’s also be noted that for most people who appreciate these coachbuilt writing is fl uid and a real pleasure their only ride in a limousine would masterpieces, and are saving and to read. The book is well worth be attending a funeral, and for many collecting them, often with a bit of shelf space in any library that has others their only ride in a custom humor. Mr Thomas A. McPherson an appreciation of fi ne coach built would be in a funeral coach. The has now written a book on two of vehicles. —Greg Nolan result was that funerals and attached products and services were big business. A large part of these funerals his is the story of how a were the funeral coach, limousines, h T clandestine group of Ford and fl ower-cars. These, even in their marketers, designers, stylists simplest forms, were elaborate with and executives created one of some truly over the top. These were the most successful car designs true bespoke custom bodies, modifi ed of the twentieth century. Based to the individual requirements of the on extensive research and funeral homes which ordered them. interviews with Mustang team members, including Iacocca, Today in the new millennium people management and factory are opting either for very simple employees, this history traces funerals, or none at all, with the the Mustang through every stage of development from corresponding rise in cremations with initial concept to the start of no cemetery burial. The result being production, correcting some the evaporation of the market for fi ne, popular misconceptions in the unique coachbuilt funeral equipment. process.

What little “custom” work being done 208 pages $45 hardcover (7 × 10) today is in effect a modifi cation of 137 photos (17 in color), bibliography, index standard sedans as no manufacturer ISBN 978-0-7864-5840-0 2010 is supplying specialized commercial chassis. The wonderful ambulances supplied by these companies have McFarland also been replaced by more mundane, Box 6¡¡, Jefferson NC 28640 • Orders 800-253-2¡87 • FAX 336-246-4403 • www.mcfarlandpub.com albeit practical trucks and vans. September - October 2010 13 Editorial Editor’s Query

Several people have expressed the idea that contemporary car design is insipid, which leads them to fi nd no interest in newer cars. Do you think there has been one “Golden Age,” or several, in ? What factors do you think contribute to the Duesenberg Twenty Grand in the Nethercutt bland nature of today’s car designs?

Museum Piece

Museums are essential to our activities as historians. We can study the photos, the technical specifi cations, the advertising, the parts and repair manuals, the eyewitness histories, but eventually we have to see an 1901 Toledo steamer, Nethercutt 1914 Rauch & Lang electric brougham actual car. Museums generally have similar missions, to provide a learning opportunity.

Some establishments, like The Henry Ford, go beyond the reguar defi nition of a museum to become more like an institution. Other museums are small or medium-sized private collections which are occasionally open to the Doble burner and boiler, in the Nethercutt Doble motive power unit with integral gearbox public. Perhaps these establishments are motivated by tax laws as well as an educational mission, but for historians the result is the same, access to the cars and information. A few examples out of hundreds around the world: Tatra scale development models for new vehicle designs. Tatra had to work with very limited resources. The Nethercutt Museum, located in Sylmar, California. This collection of 250 vehicles, pictured in 2001, features the Duesenberg Twenty Grand in addition to several steam-powered vehicles such as a Doble roadster. The Doble is shown alongside a cut- away display chassis which reveals the Tatra V570. This experimental car was Tatra’s version of Tatra 601 Monte Carlo. This 1949 experimental car inner workings of the boiler, cylinders a small, economical car. featured a two-door body. and integral gearbox. The collection also includes a Canadian Pacifi c Royal Hudson locomotive and dozens of examples of automated musical instruments.

Tatra Technical Museum, located in Koprivnice,ˇ Czech Republic. The Ambulance, proposal. This vehicle as well as museum is located in the heart of the 603 X represented Tatra’s efforts to update the 603 Tatra 613 V6 engine. This engine was simplified com- Tatra’s hometown, next door to the styling in the 1960s. pared to the production air-cooled V8 powerplant. This “Hotel Tatra.” The vehicles range version proposed single overhead camshafts per bank rather than the standard double overhead cams. 14 SAH Journal No. 247 Electronic Edition from a replica of the Nesseldorfer Präsident to the last -series passenger cars. The museum has dozens of examples of Tatra air-cooled engines for cars, trucks, and aviation. A unexpected treat is display cases full of sketches and scale model mock-ups from the styling department showing how the company developed new vehicles. The museum also features a 1922 Bugatti T23 Bresica 1922 Hispano-Suiza H6B, body by Labourdette Tatra-designed aerodynamic railcar set, at the entrance.

Mullin Automotive Museum, in Oxnard, California. This must be the largest concentration of Bugatti automobiles in the country, if not North America. The location was formerly owned by Otis Chandler to 1927 Bugatti T40 in the Schlumpf Malmerspach Reserve. 1994 Bugatti EB110 SS house his personal vehicle collection, and the building has been extensively remodelled since Peter Mullin acquired it in 2006. The Mullin also features a sub-collection called the Schlumpf Malmerspach Reserve. The museum has a display of Style Moderne, or “Art Deco” glass and art objects as well as furniture. Vehicles represent both artistic and technical achievements, with several racing cars including the Voisin Laboratoire and a front-wheel- drive 1927 Cooper-Miller racer.

Toyota USA Automobile Museum, in Torrance, California. The Toyota Museum in Japan offers one of the Voisin C6 Laboratoire racer. Created for the 1923 French Grand Prix. most comprehensive overviews of Japanese automotive history. The Toyota USA museum covers the history of Toyota in this country from 1957 on. Local Toyota history is of interest because of Calty Research Design, Inc, in Newport Beach, California, which among other things designed the second-generation Celica series for Toyopet Crown and Tiara Toyota Land Cruiser, Stout, and Hi-Lux pickups 1978. —A. Meyer One example of the Toyota 2000 GT in the museum. All images from editor’s collection.

September - October 2010 15 First Class Presort JournalThe Society of Automotive Historians, Inc. U.S. Postage Issue 247 September-October 2010 PAID The Society of Automotive Historians, Inc. Permit #1 P.O. Box 1948 Whittier, CA Vashon, WA 98070-1948

Josef Sodomka, Jr. See page 4.

1940 Aero 50, above. Convertible body on Aero chassis and the “weekend caravan” both constructed by Czech coachbuilder Sodomka of Vysoké Myto.´ Factory images via Silueta.

16 SAH Journal No. 247 Electronic Edition