1910 Mitchell Model S Touring

The Mitchell vehicles were built in Racine, Wisconsin, from 1903 to 1923. This 1910 Mitchell Model S Touring Car served part of its life as a water wagon by a volunteer fire department in southern Oregon. The body had been removed and a large water tank was welded to the frame. A Pennsylvania collector purchased the car from the fire department, along with the original body of the car. The car was treated to a complete restoration and used for many years before it was sold to a California collector, Gerald Freck, in 1970.

While in Freck's care, the car was given another complete restoration. Carl J. Schmitt purchased the car in 1987. Schmitt re-restored the car from 1990-1991. It has been given an electric self-starter to make it easier to use.

Mounted under the bonnet is an F-head six-cylinder engine mated to a three-speed selective-sliding gearbox. There are mechanically activated rear-wheel brakes and a semi-elliptic leaf springs suspension.

In 2008, this Thomas Flyer was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company Auction held in Pebble Beach, California. The car was estimated to sell for $175,000 - $225,000 and was offered without reserve. The lot was sold for $242,000, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2009