1909 Peerless Model 19 Rois Des Belges Touring

The 1909 Peerless Model 19 came equipped with a T-head four-cylinder engine offering 40 horsepower. It was acquired by Pat Boyle of Ridgewood, New Jersey, from the estate of an owner in Tuxedo Park, New York. Boyle offered the car in May of 1954 in the Antique Automobile Guide, of which he served as editor, described as having been 'driven less than 15,000 miles; was chauffeur-driven. The upholstery, body, top, still in good condition.' The car was subsequently purchased by Dr. Stanley Cope, who spent the next six years personally restoring the car to its original condition, with the exception of a replacement driveshaft, going on to win an AACA National First Prize in 1960. In 1961, Dr. Cope added hydraulic brakes.

A second fresh restoration was undertaken by Tom Lester in 1978 following many years of touring. It received new aluminum pistons, ring gear and pinion, and a modern magneto. After the work was completed, Dr. Cope continued to extensively use the vehicle, and numerous cosmetic and mechanical improvements were made as necessary. The body was refinished in 1991 and a new top was fitted in 1998.

Les Holden acquired the Peerless from Dr. Cope in 2002 and is believed to be the vehicle's fourth owner. Mr. Holden drove the car on a 2,300-mile tour through the Canadian Rockies in 2004 and displayed it at the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. It was regularly used until Mr. Holden's passing in 2020.

Accessories found on this vehicle include the original restored Grey & Davis headlamps, cowl lamps, and taillight, along with with an eight-day clock, Jones 60-mph speedometer, a wicker trunk, and an umbrella holder. There are covered spare wheels, side curtains, and top boot.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2021

During the early 1900s, the name Peerless stood among the finest in American automotive circles. The Cleveland automaker with its slogan, 'All That the Name Implies' was part of the famed 'Three P's,' along with Packard and Pierce-Arrow, this trio of luxury cars was regarded as leaders in engineering, refinement, and precision of workmanship.

One of two known to exist, Peerless number 4882, spent its early life chauffeur driven for a family in Tuxedo Park, NY. After it was retired from family use, Pat Boyle of Ridgewood, NJ acquired the car and placed it in storage for the next 35 years. In 1954, Dr. E. Stanley Cope of Palmerton, PA purchased the car and initiated a restoration which culminated in winning an AACA National First in 1960. The car has been toured continuously since that time.

After 48 years of caretaking and touring enjoyment, Dr. Cope transferred ownership to the current owners in 2002.