1899 Duryea Trap

THF91401 / 1899 Duryea Trap
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Artifact Overview

Cars of this era usually looked like squarish horse-drawn buggies. But Charles Duryea was inspired by the more graceful curves of a victoria carriage. The curling front forks support the single front wheel and flex to absorb jolts. The driver used a control stick to steer, shift gears, and accelerate. The automobile may have looked good, but passengers sat back to back, making conversation difficult.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Automobile

Date Made

1899

Creator Notes

Made by Duryea Motor Wagon Company in Peoria, Illinois.

Location

at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America

Object ID

36.110.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Metal
Wood (Plant material)
Leather

Color

Black (Color)
Blue
Red
Yellow (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 51 in
Width: 62 in
Length: 101.5 in

Specifications

Make & Model: 1899 Duryea trap
Maker: Duryea Manufacturing Company, Peoria, Illinois
Engine: inline-3, 215 cubic inches
Transmission: 2-speed manual
Height: 51 inches
Wheelbase: 66 inches
Width: 62 inches
Overall length: 102 inches
Weight: 700 pounds
Horsepower: 6
Pounds per horsepower: 116.7
Price: $1,200
Average 1899 wage: $426 per year
Time you'd work to buy this car: about 2 years, 10 months
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