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1903 Holsman Type 3

The Holsman Automobile Company of Chicago was founded in 1903 and produced 327 vehicles that year. Within two years, production had surpassed 1,100 vehicles per year. The company had been founded by Henry K. Holsman and associate C.H. Bryan. They produced one of the earliest of all high-wheelers and part of its success is attributed to its carriage-like design which was familiar to Midwestern farmers. The High Wheelers allowed it to easily travel difficult terrain and to cross water as needed.

The early success of the company allowed Holsman to increase production by adding a night shift in order to keep pace with demand. As the years ticked by, many high-wheeler manufacturers switched to more conventional designs, embracing pneumatic tires. Holsman remained true to the original design, which ultimately led to its demise. After his company entered receivership in 1910, he moved to Plano and began producing another Highwheeler called the Independent Harvester. This venture proved to be even less successful.

The early Holsman used a 7/8-inch manila rope, which did not work well in wet weather. Holsman engineers devised a solution using a chain braided over with manila and steel wire at first, then simplifying the design with just a chain. Braking was similar to horse-drawn wagons, with a hand-operated brake acting directly against the solid rubber tires.

During the Highwheeler production, from 1903 through 1910, pricing remained fairly consistent, hovering around the $600 range. A two-cylinder engine initially offered 7 horsepower and rose to 10 horsepower by 1905. The wheelbase typically ranged from 65- to 75-inches and body styles were often runabouts.


by Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2020

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