Item Info

Media Type: Photographic Prints
Source: Automobile Reference Collection
Notes:

 Grandpappy and Cradle

Old '98, one of the nation's oldest operating automobiles, and its specially built trailer (shown above) will be presented to the Ford Museum on September 11th. The 1898 Autocar No. 2 (the first four-wheeler built by the firm, now exclusive heavy duty truck manufacturers) resting on its trailer is hitched with a safety lock to the rear of a passenger car. The trailer was designed by G. Ralph Strohl, an Autocar engineer, for taking the antique phaeton to shows around the country. Alloy steel channel rails about ten feet long are fastened over a tubular steel frame above the axle allowing tilting action of the channels for loading and unloading. Center of gravity of the whole trailer was determined and the axle was so placed that the amount of weight suspended on the tow hook of the auto bumper is approximately 200 pounds. This allows comfortable speed for the driver of the car and safe travel for its invaluable passenger. The Ol '98 weighs about 1000 pounds and the trailer 692 pounds. 

from the Publicity Department of Gray & Rogers, Advertising. 12 South Twelfth Street, Philadelphia 7. Note to Editor: This news Release is accurate and reliable. We are paid to send it to you, our client in this instance being: Autocar Div. The White Motor Co.

For Release: Tuesday, September 7th or Thereafter

Creation Year: 1898
Creator Name: Gray & Rogers - Photographer