If These Cars Could Talk: 1909 McIntyre 251 Truck
Join us for an in-depth look at the many automobiles in our collection and discover their part in our history. If These Cars Could Talk is a monthly program offered by museum staff for free to the public on the first Saturday of each month.
The 1909 McIntyre 251 is a light duty vehicle with a carrying capacity of 1,200 pounds and is powered by a two-cylinder, horizontally opposed, air-cooled motor. Located beneath the center of the vehicle, the 90 cubic-inch, 20 horsepower engine drives the rear wheels by chain. The model 251 has a wheelbase of 86 inches and came with a cost of $800 new. It is typical of the light duty highwheel trucks that McIntyre produced. It is the only known surviving example of its type.
The vehicle suffered extensive damage in a 1993 fire. The heat was so intense that the valve springs melted. The volunteer maintenance team, working with staff members and a carriage restorer, completely restored the vehicle. The members of the team included John Rosener, Gary Vick, Paul Casebere, Bob Butler and Chris Graham. In 1995 the truck was driven into the Museum, a true testimony to the skill of those working on the project.
This presentation will be held in the museum galleries next to the car from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm on Saturday, September 10, 2022 and is offered to all patrons for free with museum admission. For more information, including the specific location of the presentation, please call ahead at 260-925-1444 or see an associate at the admission desk.
