NASCAR Grand National Racing Trophy Won by Buck Baker, 1956
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Artifact Overview
Carl Kiekhaefer's team dominated NASCAR in 1955 and 1956. The car that won this trophy was driven by 1956 NASCAR national champion Buck Baker. Kiekhaefer, who founded boat engine builder Mercury Marine, was among the first team owners to run a highly professional operation with dynamometer tests for his engines, transporter trailers for his cars, and uniforms for his crew.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Trophy (Object)
Date Made
1956
Subject Date
1956
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
2003.13.5
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Brass (Alloy)
Metal
Wood (Plant Material)
Dimensions
Height: 22.75 in
Width: 7.25 in
Depth: 6 in
Inscriptions
Plaque on front: GRAND NATIONAL / CIRCUIT WINNER / ORANGE SPEEDWAY / 1956
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Related Artifacts
Artifact1956 Chrysler 300-B Stock Car
Mercury Marine founder Carl Kiekhaefer formed his NASCAR team with top drivers, first-class equipment, and fast cars like this powerful Chrysler 300-B. Kiekhaefer taught rivals a lesson, dominating the 1955 and 1956 seasons. But he learned something too: success breeds contempt. When fans began to resent Kiekhaefer's dominance, he disbanded his team in 1957.