The Stoddard-Dayton company holds a significant place in automotive history, renowned for its innovative engineering, powerful engines, and pioneering contributions to early motorsport. One of the most notable aspects of Stoddard-Dayton’s legacy is its involvement in the inaugural races at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1909.
This particular Stoddard-Dayton, known as No 21, is a faithful replica of the car driven by Fred ‘Jap’ Clemens in the historic races at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1909. The Speedway’s leading investor, Carl Fisher, who was also the Indiana distributor for Stoddard-Dayton, played a pivotal role in these early racing events. Fred Clemens achieved remarkable success behind the wheel of the Stoddard-Dayton, finishing 2nd overall in the prestigious 100-mile Prest-O-Lite Trophy race held on August 19th, 1909.
The car itself is a testament to Stoddard-Dayton’s commitment to engineering excellence, featuring an advanced overhead valve straight 4-cylinder engine with a displacement of 354 cubic inches, capable of developing an impressive 45 horsepower. This level of power was exceptional for its time and contributed to the car’s success on the racetrack.
Over the years, this Stoddard-Dayton No 21 has passed through the hands of several esteemed collectors, each contributing to its rich history and provenance. Following a restoration completed in 1984, the car was adorned with the autographs of racing legends Emil Andres and Lujie Lesovsky, further enhancing its allure and historical significance. Its journey from restoration to autograph embellishment mirrors the ongoing legacy of automotive enthusiasm and reverence for heritage.
In 2009, this remarkable automobile was offered for sale at the prestigious Gooding & Company auction held at Pebble Beach, CA. Despite its storied past and impeccable pedigree, the car changed hands for a sum of $110,000, inclusive of the buyer’s premium, a testament to its enduring appeal among automotive enthusiasts and collectors.
This transaction not only marked a significant moment in the car’s journey but also underscored its status as a coveted piece of automotive history, appreciated by discerning collectors worldwide. The auction’s outcome solidified its place as a cherished artifact, celebrated for its rarity and historical significance.
The Stoddard-Dayton company’s production spanned from 1905 to 1913 and was a product of the Dayton Motor Car Company, based in Dayton, Ohio. Although the company ceased operations over a century ago, its legacy lives on through iconic automobiles like the No 21 replica, showcasing the pioneering spirit and engineering prowess of early American automakers.
