The Vanderbilt Cup Races

Lee Frayer and Eddie Rickenbacker At the Start (1906)

Courtesy of The National Automotive History Collection at the Detroit Public Library

Another innovative machine showcased in the 1906 American Elimination Trial was the unique, air-cooled Frayer-Miller entry with designer Lee Frayer (right) at the wheel. Frayer’s riding mechanician, 16-year-old Eddie Rickenbacker (left), was arguably the most significant historical figure present that day. Rickenbacker later drove in both the 1915 and the 1916 Vanderbilt Cup Races and five Indianapolis 500 Races. He even purchased the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1927. His greatest moments came from his career in aviation, where he became America’s World War I flying ace and, later in life, rose to President and General Manager of Eastern Airlines. Click here for a summary of Eddie’s racing career.