Sewell Cushion Wheel Used on Detroit Fire Engine, 1920-1925

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Artifact Overview

This clever wheel, manufactured by the Sewell Cushion Wheel Company of Detroit, used two felloes -- or rims -- with a rubber cushion sandwiched between them. The design reduced the shock and vibration produced by the solid-rubber tire. Wheels like this were used on heavy commercial vehicles before the adoption of pneumatic truck tires.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Tire

Date Made

1920-1925

Creator Notes

Wheel designed and manufactured by Sewell Cushion Wheel Company; tire made by United States Tire Company.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

44.15.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Douglas Sewell.

Material

Rubber (Material)
Wood (Plant material)
Iron (Metal)
Steel (Alloy)

Color

Red

Dimensions

Height: 38.5 in
Width: 11 in
Diameter: 36 in (tire)
Diameter: 31.5 in (wheel)

Inscriptions

Impressed into both sides of tire: UNITED STATES/ HIGH / TRADE MARK / SIZE TIRE / REG U.S.PAT OFF / DD / 1223K128 / 36X5 / 125X76 2 / UNITED STATES TIRE COMPANY / 6 / insignia / S.A.E. Tag (formerly wired to wheel) marked:GIFT OF THE DETROIT CITY BRANCH OF TIRE COMMISSION APPARATUS BUREAU. On reverse side: THRU MR. DOUGLAS SEWELL, 4091 BEAUFORT...DETROIT 7, MICHIGAN 2/21/44.
Sewell Cushion Wheel Used on Detroit Fire Engine, 1920-1925