1911 Pierce-Arrow Model 36 Mini Tonneau

Pierce Arrow actually evolved from a manufacturing firm that originally made birdcages. The predecessor company - Heintz, Pierce, and Munschauer - was founded in 1865 in Buffalo, New York. In 1872, the company was reorganized and partner George N. Pierce bought controlling interest, and by 1896 it became one of the largest producers of bicycles in America.

The company soon became interested in automobile manufacturing and built its first prototype - a steam-powered automobile - in 1900. After doing further research, the company decided to use a gasoline engine and built two gasoline-powered automobiles in 1901. The first automobiles were simply called Pierce and were small one-cylinder vehicles.

The first Pierce to use the Arrow name as its model designation appeared in 1903. By 1907, the company was producing a wide variety of four- and six-cylinder vehicles and was becoming known as one of the leading manufacturers of luxury automobiles in America.

In 1911, the Pierce Arrow Company offered three models - a Model 36, a Model 48, and a Model 66. This example is the Model 36, powered by a six-cylinder, 36-horsepower engine. It features cast aluminum fenders, body panels, a crankcase, and a transmission case. The transmission offers four gears. The original sale price was $4,000. Known as the Miniature Tonneau because it was smaller than the standard touring car, it was one of the five body styles offered.

This car was discovered behind a barn in Kansas where it had been used as a tractor. Pierce-Arrow also produced trucks and other automobile frames that were converted to railroad engines and fire engine chassis later in their lives. This was a true testament to the durability of the frame and engine.

President Taft became the first United States President to own an automobile. He ordered two Pierce-Arrows for the White House, a brougham, and a landaulette. He also ordered a Baker Electric and a White Steamer. Presidents continued to order Pierce-Arrows until the company went out of business. Several Presidents would go on to purchase their official cars when they left office. A sadder connection to the presidency related to the location of the Pierce-Arrow factory in Buffalo, New York. The site had previously been the location of the 1901 Pan American Exposition, where President McKinley was assassinated.