c.1910 Glide Model 45 Scout

354.4ci L-Head 4-Cylinder Engine
45bhp
3-Speed Selective-Shift Manual Transmission
Semi-Elliptical Front and Rear Leaf Springs
Rear-Wheel Drum Brakes

*"Ride in a Glide, then decide"
*One of very few surviving Glide automobiles, built in Peoria, Illinois
*Formerly owned by Homer Fitterling and the Imperial Palace
*Very attractive lines and powerful drivetrain

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

In the early years of automaking, manufacturers of virtually every imaginable item tried their hand at building a car. That Peoria, Illinois, businessman J.A. Bartholomew's previous experience was in peanut and coffee roadsters did not stop him from launching the Glide in 1904. More remarkably, the high-quality machine was produced for a remarkable 16 years, during which time between 200 and 500 were manufactured annually, under the memorable and catchy tagline, "Ride in a Glide, then decide." Historian Beverly Rae Kimes also wryly noted another slogan, "A Hill-Climber Built in the Hills" – perhaps not apt for a car made in Peoria.

One of very few surviving Glides, the Tupelo Automobile Museum's car was acquired from the Imperial Palace in Las Vegas. Former owners were recorded as the noted Duesenberg collector Homer Fitterling of South Bend, Indiana, and Donald L. Ephlin, with whom the car was recorded in the Antique Automobile Club of America's 1954 and 1961 rosters. Its present restoration likely dates to its ownership by Mr. Ephlin, with the exception of a 1990s repaint, and bears extensive patina throughout, though it is still solid and overall attractive.

The Glide has long been labeled, by all of its prior owners, as a 1908 Model R, and its serial number plate is from that model. Information on the file from Glide historian Jim Brodes indicates, however, that by virtue of its 122-in. wheelbase chassis and large 32-in. wheels it is more likely a 1910 or 1911 Model 45 Scout; the Model R serial number plate was likely fitted by an early enthusiast owner in an attempt to "backdate" the car. Additional information in the file goes into further details on the car's equipment and mechanical specifications.

Opportunities to acquire a Glide are few and far between, and this one is one of only two or three to have been made publicly available in recent years; furthermore, it bears a rich history extending back to the early years of "the hobby." The new buyer is invited to experience a wonderful tidbit from the early, inventive years of Midwestern automaking.