The Lexington Automobile
A Complete History
Richard A.
Stanley
ISBN
978-0-7864-2542-6
251 photos, tables, appendix, notes, bibliography, index
263pp.
hardcover
(7 x 10)
2007
Available for immediate shipment
Description
Lexington, a smaller marque that twice won the famous hill climb at Pikes Peak, produced its first car in 1909 in its namesake city of Lexington, Kentucky. Although little has heretofore been written about the Lexington, and no company financial records survive, the manufacturer’s story is fascinating and unique. Lexington, for example, was a leader in the use of color in magazine advertising and factory literature, and the company used advertisements to support contemporary issues like women’s suffrage. Paralleling manufacturing trends of today, Lexington relocated to Connersville, Indiana, in 1910, with promised municipal perks such as new, advanced facilities, free water, and no local taxes for five years.
From incorporation to financial insolvency in 1926, this is the first book to offer the complete story of the Lexington Motor Company as well as the related Howard and Ansted cars. Detailing company history within the context of the American industrial revolution, it follows the upstart manufacturer from initial choice of property, factory design and name selection, through relocation, World War I, ventures into auto racing, and finally a takeover by Auburn in 1927. It also offers detailed automotive specifications and options, and includes information on surviving Lexingtons. This comprehensive text includes over 240 photographs depicting the communities, cars and people associated with the Lexington.
About the Author
Retired school administrator and teacher Richard A. Stanley is currently the director of the Fayette County Historical Museum in Connersville, Indiana.
Reviews
"well-researched, fascinating...it’s remarkable to see in this book how many photos and ads of Lexington cars, their factory, parts and advertising have survived...McFarland has emerged as a source for interesting books on obscure, but worthy, American cars"--Hemmings Classic Car
"definitive...extensive research...well-documented and interesting...outstanding"--SAH Journal
"a gold mine of information...and the author has made it an excellent reading experience"--Antique Automobile
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Table of Contents & Excerpts
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