From left to right—1914 Ford Touring, 1917 Crow-Elkhart, 1913 Hupmobile and a 1913 Ford Speedster.]
Following World War I cars that had remained drawing board dreams sprung into reality. Faster production methods had evolved from the war and were now applied to the auto industry. New techniques for making lighter alloys were brought into use and new advances in the theory of the internal combustion engine were tested and applied. The result was a selection of autos superior to those of the previous period.
Production had passed from experiment to refinement. Efficiency was the byword with great care given in the construction of each unit during that post-war period. Mass production sounded the death knell for the short-lived Vintage Years which, it is generally agreed, lasted from 1919 to 1930.
This Essex, manufactured by the Hudson Motor Car Company from 1918-1932, was a low-priced, four cylinder car. However, it was very popular and was noted for its remarkable acceleration and top speed.]
Even the best of the Vintage Years autos had their bad moments. Experienced mechanics were few and far between in some parts of the country. Usually the local blacksmith could be depended upon for a piece of bailing wire and a fair repair job, as on this 1922 Star.]
Willys-Knight was most notable for its double-sleeve-valve engine. Purchase price for this model was $1,400.00.]
You were really “IN” back in the “Roaring 20’s” with this sporty wire-wheeled model. This is a blood-brother to the famous Stutz Bearcat of early sports car fame.]
The tour cylinder Mercer was one of the fastest cars of its day. Note the wire wheels and the two spare tires at the rear. All four doors opened from the inside only.]
This six cylinder four door sedan was one of the last cars made by the Paige Company which merged with the Graham Brothers Company the next year forming the Graham-Paige Company. Notice the three-tone paint job.]
Henry’s Garage displays 18 early Fords from the 1906 Model “N” through the Model A”. A parts room duplicating the organized mess of the early Ford parts department and a display of tools used to work on these wonders which would go miles with baling wire or a hair pin holding them together.]