1907 Wayne Model N Touring

Byron F. 'Barney' Everitt established the Wayne Automobile Company in 1904 in Detroit (located in Wayne County, Michigan). Initially they built small horseless carriages, later switching to larger and more luxuriously appointed vehicles. Wayne later merged with Northern and Everitt joined with William Metzger and Walter Flanders to build the E-M-F. Both the Wayne and the E-M-F were designed by William Kelly.

The 1907 Wayne lineup included the Model K, N, and R. All were powered by 4-cylinder engines offering 35 horsepower, except for the Model R which had a 50 horsepower engine. All body styles were touring, with the Model K resting on a 102-inch platform, the Model N on a 107-inch wheelbase, and the Model R having a larger 120-inch wheelbase. The Model K and Model N sold for $2,500 while the Model R was priced at $3,500.

This Wayne Model N Five-Passenger Touring is the only 'big' Wanye remaining in existence. Years ago it was part of the Barney Pollard collection in Detroit. Much of the collection was later dispersed at auction, and the Wayne was acquired in 1974 by Glenn Baechler, from Wellesley, Ontario. Mr. Baechler intended to restore the Wayne but never got around to the work. In 1999, the unrestored car was acquired by Mr. Jack Dunning at Hershey.

A restoration soon followed, and its exterior colors were precisely duplicated. Much of the work was performed by Glenn and Randy Hatcher of Ohio, with the engine rebuilt by Brian Joseph with a new crankshaft, turned out of solid billet, and insert bearings. It received a new and correct top that was remade to the original designs by Amish craftsmen in Pennsylvania, and proper wooden wheels were crafted as well. The only non-stock item is a concealed starter.

This Wayne has been honored with multiple awards in AACA national competition, including the AACA Cup in the Southeastern Division for 2005

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2020