Vehicle Description
Over a century before modern automakers turned their attention to
hybrid and electric power, the Columbus Buggy Company took the
opposite approach-pivoting from their successful line of elegant,
silent electric carriages to the rugged and unrefined internal
combustion automobile. Unlike today's industry-wide shift toward
electrification, Columbus' foray into gasoline-powered motorcars
was short-lived but left a lasting impression.At the turn of the
20th century, much of rural America relied on horse-drawn buggies,
and the transition to automobiles required vehicles that could
manage deeply rutted, unpaved roads. High-wheelers-named for their
tall, spindly carriage-style wheels-were the answer. Built for
durability and ease of maintenance, these vehicles were well suited
to America's early roadways. The Columbus Autobuggy was one such
offering, developed in the company's namesake city of Columbus,
Ohio. It was powered by an air-cooled, 10-horsepower twin-cylinder
engine, driving the rear wheels via a simple yet effective
double-chain drive. One of the men involved in its development was
none other than Eddie Rickenbacker-an ambitious young engineer and
salesman who would later become America's most celebrated fighter
ace of World War I and a pioneer of commercial aviation.The
Autobuggy was produced for only two seasons before Columbus shifted
focus toward more refined automobiles under the Firestone-Columbus
marque. However, in its brief production run, the Autobuggy
embodied the adventurous spirit of early American motoring. With
its high stance, simple but effective drivetrain, and utilitarian
charm, it was an ideal machine for navigating the rural
countryside.The example offered here is a well-preserved piece of
early automotive history. Formerly part of the esteemed Jack Frost
collection, it was restored in the late 1960s by Walter Heater of
Dearborn, Michigan-a pioneer in the early days of automotive
restoration. Following its time in the Frost Museum, the Autobuggy
was acquired by the famed Imperial Palace Auto Collection in Las
Vegas before passing into another prominent museum collection in
1994, where it remained on display for 25 years and was recently
part of another prominent collection.Despite the age of its
restoration, this Columbus Autobuggy retains a wonderfully charming
character, with its minor patina adding to its authenticity. The
tall wooden-spoke wheels, chain-drive system, and period-correct
brass fittings evoke the ingenuity and craftsmanship of early
American motoring. Notably, the chassis number remains stamped into
the wood structure of the tail-a testament to its originality.A
true relic of the dawn of the automobile, this 1908 Columbus
Autobuggy is a fascinating artifact that embodies the pioneering
spirit of American industry. As a rare opportunity to acquire a
piece of early motoring history from a uniquely storied marque, it
appeals to high-wheeler enthusiasts, admirers of early automotive
engineering, and collectors seeking a tangible link to Eddie
Rickenbacker's legacy. It's ironic how history repeats itself,
isn't it? Offers welcome and trades considered For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7857-1908-columbus-autobuggy/
