The White Lie Mystery (UPDATE: 1904)
Built in 1899? No way! Although R.E. Olds started making cars in 1899, a real Oldsmobile didn’t show up before 1901. Actually this one looks like a ‘Curved Dash’ with straight board front end, dating from around 1904. The 1921 photo was taken outside the Weide Brothers Oldsmobile dealer after this early subcampact finished first in an Old Car Race. We don’t know if this was a real race or just a publicity stunt to promote the dealership. What we do know is that this Olds still is around. Bought in 1962 by the present owner’s father, a former owner of the Oldsmobile dealership in Porterville, the Olds has remained in the family ever since, but will now be sold by Bonhams and Butterfields during their Brookline Auction on September 26. Does anyone know more about this “Old Car Race” or can perhaps give a better dating of this Oldsmobile? Then please contact us! (photos courtesy Bonhams & Butterfields)
Update by Peter Smith: "...definately a 1904 car as it has rear brakes fitted. This car also has traction control arms. The earlier model R did not have either of these items fitted."
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