Brush runabout

Here is a copy of a photograph of James H. Miller, delivering US mail in a Brush runabout in Alcona County, Michigan, in 1912. Based on where the writing is located on the image, my guess is that this is a copy of a photographic postcard. This is where we typically see writing on early 1900s postcards. Note the deplorable state of the road. Then imagine the mosquitoes. In this high quality photograph details are crisp and clear. Since my husband is a car fan, I periodically ask him to identify vehicles in historic photos I process. This makes both of us happy. According to his research, this model was manufactured between 1910 and 1912. 

The Brush was manufactured in Detroit and Mr. Alanson P. Brush was a major name in Detroit automotive history. He designed the first Cadillac as well as his Brush Runabout and organized the Oakland Motor Car Co., the parent company of the Pontiac Division of GM Corp. A self-trained mechanical engineer, he was the first chief designer of Cadillac Motor Car Co. and held many patents. In a publicity stunt, Brush drove a one-cylinder Cadillac up and down the front steps of the Wayne County Building in 1902 to cheers from a crowd of thousands. Perhaps the fact that it was so tough and capable is why it was purchased for mail delivery in early twentieth century Alcona County. Brush's company only lasted until 1913. He died in 1952. To learn more about Mr. Brush and his car, read The Brush Runabout, Everyman's Car, 1907 to 1913 at  https://brushownersregister.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/The-Brush-Runabout-Everymans-Car.pdf   

I could not learn more about James H. Miller because he has a common name for the time period.  

This photo is one of many materials in the Marcia Simmons family collection documenting the history of Alpena and Alcona counties. I love archives! I learn something new every day.