An Alco Racer and its Infamous Owner- Grover Cleveland Bergdoll
In addition to the Alco-6 Black Beast Racer, the American Locomotive Company built at least three other race cars including an Alco Racer owned by Grover Cleveland Bergdoll (1893-1966). In this photo taken by Nathan Lazarnick, Bergdoll appears to be working on the removable rim of his Alco.
Bergdoll's family founded the Louis Bergdoll and Sons Brewing Company in 1849, which produced one of the most popular beers in the United States until 1951. Grover Cleveland Bergdoll earned an infamous reputation when he dodged the draft during World War I. He fled to Germany and then dodged the German draft when he was told to join their military. In 1939, he returned to the United States and was tried and sent to prison for 7 years.
December 16, 2009: Lost Treasures article on Grover Cleveland Bergdoll.
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