Lot 1002: 1906/7 Franklin Model D 20hp Five Passenger Tourer

Cornell engineering graduate, JohnWilkinson, designed his first prototype air cooled cars for the New York Automobile Co. but, unsurprisingly fell out with them when he failed to be properly recompensed. Finding financial backing from Alexander T. Brown, combined with support from Herbert H Franklin, Wilkinson’s prototype designs went into production with the H. H. Franklin Co., the first car leaving the production line in June 1902. From the outset, air-cooled engines were the norm for Franklin with four cylinder engine units featuring overhead valves, early examples being transversely mounted at the front in European rather than typically American style. The Franklin was robustly built and stood up well to the dust roads of the time. Remarkably in 1904 L. L. Whitman, driving a Franklin, challenged the records set by Winton and Packard for the trans-America drive from New York City to San Francisco, setting a new record of just 33 days and gaining hugely valuable publicity for the Franklin marque.

The 20hp Model D was introduced in 1904, remaining in production until 1908 when it was superseded by the larger 28hp model. Shaft drive and three speed selective transmission were introduced with the barrel-hooded 1905 cars. This car was acquired many years ago with a small collection of cars, including the Ford Model R included in this sale, from New Hampshire. Restoration was well underway at the time Frank Cooke died, the engine has been rebuilt and the coachwork has received much attention including the fabrication of a new hood to the original pattern. The seats are upholstered in black leather, much of which is considered to be original. The side rear doors feature a double safety locking device and other attractive detail includes the lockers under the front seats. A battery box is running board mounted and a Solar gas generator is original to the car although the headlamps have not been located at the time of cataloging. The car is equipped with Gray & Davis kerosene side lamps.

This handsome touring car with its distinctive presence will offer a most respectable turn of speed and carry five passengers in comfort and style. It is presented as a well advanced restoration project with most of the expensive specialist work completed.