Ford Six loses to a Thomas Flyer, 1907

[Rob]

The only time I’m aware of a Ford Six (Model K) facing a Thomas Flyer on the track occurred when Ford set the world 24 hour record in June, 1907, beating a 60 hp Thomas Flyer and Pope-Toledo among others at the Michigan State Fairground track. However, in this instance on Labor Day, 1907, the Ford is beaten by Thomas.

On the same page, although difficult to see, is a photo of the winning Thomas Flyer. The trophies were awarded to parade participants. I’m glad the Ford Agent didn’t feel the need to “dress” up the Ford roadster as the Thomas was. It’s is decked to look like a big eagle over it’s nest..........

It took a few years, but I’ve finally located a newspaper photo of the 2nd place Ford, with lights along it’s lines:

Unfortunately my limited skills couldn’t bring details out of this poor copy. But.................

with a little transposing..........

[Wayne Sheldon]

Neat! From a parade float standpoint, that Thomas is fantastic! Although personally,I would rather see the car! Under those conditions, I would say coming in second was not a loss.
Great stuff Rob! Thank you.

[perry kete]

What is old is new again... everyone thinks putting lights on a car is something that was done recently but your photos and write ups prove that wrong. I am amazed that they used electric lights back then and we have issues doing it now and even with LEDS! I wonder how they powered the lights back then

[Wayne Sheldon]

Hey there Perry S, Back in those days, Christmas light strings could be bought that were battery powered. (I don't think I have ever seen a surviving set, but I have seen ads for them.) Many homes were in areas that did not yet have electricity used part-time battery and/or generator power systems in the home. Prior to electricity becoming popular, Christmas tree "lights" were candles!!! Many homes were lost due to Christmas tree fires even in the days when the average person KNEW how to be careful with any fire. A very good friend of mine has actually decorated his Christmas tree with candles, and lit them for Christmas day. And he is VERY careful doing so.
In spite of the human tendency to fear new technologies, the coming of practical electricity was largely welcomed because of all the disastrous fires that were so common before. Just because the infrastructure hadn't been built yet was no reason for people to not be safer with electric lights on the holiday tree.

[Chris Haynes]

As I recall the way Henry won the first time was that all the other cars did not finish.

[Rob]

Chris, not sure what race or event you’re referring to. The only time I’m aware of a Ford Motor Company Model K competing with the 60 hp Thomas Flyer was in the June 21-22 1907 twenty-four hour race at Detroit. The Ford set a new 24 hour world record for miles on a 1 mile circular dirt track, averaging over 47mph for 24 hours.

I may put up a thread on that event with some newly found information later this week, especially if there is interest. I believe (but may be wrong) it was Ford’s only stock chassis world record into the 1950’s.

[DHort]

Is Chris referring to the race where Sweepstakes beat Mr Winton? Did Mr Winton ever finish the race?

[Rob]

Dave, I thought he had a problem (Winton) but still finished. I do remember reading period articles, and I don’t believe the Ford beating Winton in one event was the feature race. I’ll look for the article.

[Atomic Amish]

Great stuff, as always, Rob!

And OF COURSE there is interest in that event. At least I am interested, anyway!

Thanks for all you do!

jk

[Amatressa]

Neat! From a parade float standpoint, that Thomas is fantastic! Although personally,I would rather see the car! Under those conditions, I would say coming in second was not a loss.
Great stuff Rob! Thank you.




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