Front Drive Motor Co.
Presentation album documenting J. Walter Christie's Experimental Tanks produced for the U.S. Army in WWI, c. 1917
Photo album; Silver prints (15)
Overall 9 x 11 inches
Sold
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The short-lived Hoboken-based Front Drive Motor Company was founded in 1912 by J. Walter Christie, an American inventor, and early automotive engineer. After failing to find a practical use for...
The short-lived Hoboken-based Front Drive Motor Company was founded in 1912 by J. Walter Christie, an American inventor, and early automotive engineer. After failing to find a practical use for his patented front-wheel drive system at the early auto-races, Christie realized the technology could be applied more successfully to military vehicles and tanks, providing grip and reliability on uneven terrain. Together with the patented "Christie Suspension," his tanks were able to move at greater speeds than most available at the period and included this technology until his death in 1944. He is also credited with the invention of a few other devices, including a flying car and a remote-controlled gun turret.
The album chronicles the tanks' capabilities, picturing them moving through deep marshes; over hedgerows and large piles of debris; and along rutted dirt roads. Several of the images highlight the vehicles' suspension components.
The album chronicles the tanks' capabilities, picturing them moving through deep marshes; over hedgerows and large piles of debris; and along rutted dirt roads. Several of the images highlight the vehicles' suspension components.