Vanderbilt Cup Races

Willie K. on Long Island Roads: A Profitable Endeavor for Farmers and Pet Owners

The first day of the century had this item about Willie K. speeding along the roads of Long Island in his "White Ghost".  Farmers and pet owners saw an opportunity to make some money in a rather unorthodox way.  (The Autobain Jan. 1, 1900)

Willie in his "White Ghost".

Lining up along Willie K's. route!

Profitable unless a car is driven by a "cheap auto driver". 

Dog owners also had their pay day:  $10 for a dog worth $.29!  (The Suffolk County News May 31, 1901)

Good Roads for America

Perhaps Willie K. read this article and agreed that good country roads were needed in America.  (The Autobain Feb., 1900)

Speeding in the "White Ghost"

Traveling 144 miles at 31.3 mph in the "White Ghost"!  (The Autobain Aug. 1, 1900)

". . . what was the unearthly thing that came up in a cloud of dust"?

The "White Ghost" (or perhaps its driver) also contributed to New York's enactment of speed limits.  (Buffalo Evening News May 18, 1901)

A checkered past caused the car to be sold  . . . and sold again!  (The Utica Observer Apr. 4, 1902)

Willie Buys and Sells Automobiles

Willie's "Red Devil" also sold! (Automobile Topics May 3, 1902)

The Red Devil in 1901.

A new Mors and Mercendes for Willie K. in 1905.  (Automobile Topics Mar. 18, 1905)

Willie K. and the "Unlikely 13"

Was the 1906 Vanderbilt Cup Race originally scheduled for October 13?  (The Automobile Jul., 1906)

Numerous accidents were associated with #13 and caused apprehension among bicyclists also.

Was Willie K. influenced by this superstition?   You be the judge. 

Near the Top of New York Auto Owners

While Willie K. had 18 registered cars in New York, he ranked behind John Jacob Astor and Frederick G. Bourne in terms of the most cars registered.  However, not counting those cancelled he would be #2.  (The Automobile Aug., 1906)

Willie and his cup.  (The Automobile Oct. 1906)

More Autos Wanted!

Willie K. wants 10 special racing Renault Runabouts for himself and his friends.  (The Automobile Apr. 25, 1907)

Willie in his specially built Renault.

Wiillie K. as Tour Guide

I suppose Willie K. needed the 20 cents to help pay for the Renaults!  (source and date unknown).