Founded in Chicago by architect Henry K. Holsman and C.H. Bryan, Holsman Automobile Works produced the first and most renowned "High-Wheelers" in the U.S. from 1902 to 1911. By 1906, the company had expanded its production facilities sixfold, inspiring many imitators, but Holsman remained the leading manufacturer of these carriage-like vehicles. Although they appeared old-fashioned, Holsman cars were incredibly durable, excelling on the rough, muddy, wagon-worn roads of the Midwest, where other vehicles with modern designs and pneumatic tires often faltered. Holsman’s cars were also popular in developing markets like Australia due to their impressive capabilities.

One of the key selling points of the Holsman was its simplicity and ease of use. Advertisements highlighted the rope-drive system for starting, stopping, and moving forward or backward, all controlled by a hand lever. Steering was managed by a tiller, and the brakes were foot-operated, acting directly on the wheels. The vehicles were praised for their reliability and durability, featuring air-cooled engines that avoided overheating issues and solid rubber tires that eliminated the risk of punctures. The unique drive system didn’t require a gearbox or clutch, ensuring a trouble-free driving experience.

By 1908, Holsman advertisements proudly declared the company as America’s oldest maker of motor-buggies, with the slogan: “High wheels travel all roads because all roads are made to be traveled by high wheels.” Starting at $550, Holsman cars offered excellent value, and the company guaranteed every part of the vehicle. Although not built for racing, Holsman vehicles proved their strength in competition, notably winning first and second place in the Motor Buggy Class of the Algonquin Hill Climb, a prestigious event the company touted as the “Greatest Hill Climbing Event in America.” However, Holsman’s steadfast commitment to its buggy-style design eventually led to its downfall. Increased competition and declining sales forced a reorganization and relocation of production to Plano, Illinois, before the company ceased operations in 1911.

This captivating 1908 Holsman Model 10 High-Wheel Runabout was discovered in 2007, in the milking parlor of a nearby dairy barn by Ray Morey of Restorations Unlimited II in Cary, Illinois. This 1908 Holsman is an upscale Model 10 Runabout, and as such originally equipped with fenders and a folding top. Mr. Morey meticulously disassembled, refinished, and restored the vehicle, bringing it back to its former glory. The air-cooled, two-cylinder engine (100.5-cid) was restored to full working order, and the rope-drive chain was recreated for concours events, though V-belts were added for easier operation when driving. The car’s paintwork, pinstriping, and brass details make it a standout at every appearance. After its restoration, this 1908 Holsman was shown at the Special AACA meeting in Auburn, Indiana, where it earned an AACA Junior First Prize award. It was later sold to a well-known horseless carriage collector and then to its most recent owner in 2017.

This 1908 Holsman Model 10 Runabout, is an excellent example of the "Horseless Carriage" concept, represents a pivotal moment in automotive history as one of the first vehicles capable of conquering the harsh, undeveloped roads of early Midwestern America. Likely the finest example of its kind, it presents an extraordinary opportunity for its next owner.

Offers welcome and trades considered

$89,500

Stock number 7783