A fascinating, one-of-a-kind Brass-Era commercial vehicle manufactured by the Chicago Pneumatic Tool Company. Exquisitely presented with a fresh, award-winning restoration.
This delightful 1912 Little Giant Model D was discovered in 2009 by a collector and restorer from southern Pennsylvania. The restoration had been started, though the project had stalled, but he saw it as a unique opportunity to complete the project to his own high standards. He brought the Little Giant home, where he commenced a complete, nut and bolt, concours-quality restoration. With so few survivors and little information available, it was a formidable project from the start. A restored example (with a utility truck body) was found in the USA, which he carefully measured and photographed to compare with this project. Using period brochures and advertisements as reference, the Little Giant was carefully restored, with much of the work done by the owner, with spectacular results.
Still appearing very fresh from restoration, the Little Giant is a truly exquisite piece, painted a beautiful bright blue against a pale yellow chassis and accented with period appropriate gold lettering and striping. The body is magnificently crafted and detailed. Typical for the era, detailing is ornate, with gorgeous brass lamps and accessories, and a stunning stained-glass rear door, a passenger counter for the driver and a coin receptacle in the passenger compartment. While the specific history of this chassis was not known, the owner created the charming livery to reflect what a period “Jitney Bus” route might have been, linking post-offices near his hometown in Pennsylvania. Passengers ride on side-facing benches and enjoy an open-air experience. In case of inclement weather, a full set of side curtains can be fitted to keep the rear compartment dry. The driver sits exposed up front on a bench covered in finely crafted brown button-tufted leather. The driver’s compartment features lots of beautifully finished woodwork, and more highly polished brass for the steering column and controls.
