The Magic Age of Steam
My family has a museum, dedicated entirely to steam and the early steam automobile industry. Many people do not realize that steam powered automobiles existed in the early 1900's, but there were many manufacturer's of these vehicles. Most successful was the Stanley Brothers' Motor Carriage Company, and it operated from 1899 to 1926.
We are privileged to own 4 steam cars today. We have a 1903 Model C, a 1908 Model F, a 1922 Model 740, and a 1926 SV.
My great grandfather, Earle S. Eckel, started the museum with his 1914 Stanley Steam Car, and later added the 1903, a 1902, and a 1920 to his collection. He was regarded as one of the great authorities on steam.
Earle sold most of his collection in the 1970's, but my grandfather continued the tradition. He managed to keep the 1903 in the family. He maintained a close relationship with the Lyons family, and, through that relationship, re-obtained the 1908 Model F. He also purchased the 1926.
My dad continues the tradition, acting as the curator, maintaining all of the cars for over a decade now. My brother and I hope to be able to continue the tradition, as our family has shown us.
