1907 American Underslung Roadster

A young Brookville, PA entrepreneur, F.C. Deemer purchased this 50-horsepower American Underslung new in 1907 and used it frequently, turning heads wherever he went. Not long after purchasing the car, Deemer would marry a local girl and the two ventured out on their honeymoon in the Underslung. Disaster would strike on that trip when a fire wiped out a local garage where the roadster was stored for the night. The fire damaged much of the car but its chassis, engine, and trim remained intact and the car was stowed away for many decades. In 1959, F.C. Deemer passed away and Deemer's sons, Alex, and Frank Jr. became the car's new owners.

The roadster underwent a total restoration in the late 1960s when the frame was completely dismantled, sandblasted, and reassembled. New floorboards and running boards were required due to the fire. They were cast and machined to original specifications along with all other necessary parts. The original engine was salvaged and new pistons and required engine parts were manufactured.

The car debuted at the 1968 AACA Fall Meet in Hershey and was sold upon Frank Jr.'s death in 1971. The car's current owner purchased it in 2004.

Even stagnant, the American gives the feel of constant motion and speed. The seats are finished in black leather matching the black pin-striping and complementing the brass radiator, headlamps, trim, and winged mascot. Undoubtedly, the American Underslung is one of the greatest symbols of American engineering and manufacturing. Not only did its original design change the automotive world but it simultaneously created the first real sports cars of its time.

Source - Vehicle Owner