W. Murray Clark takes the wheel of his beloved Ford Model T during Woodstock’s Old Home Day celebration on August 15, 1953. Riding alongside him is his wife, Barbara, with their young daughter, Carol, on her lap, while their son, Eddie, enjoys the view from the back seat. This charming family photograph captures both the enduring appeal of the Model T and the community spirit of a memorable summer day in Woodstock, New Hampshire.

By W. Murray Clark—from the Old Home Week Program, Woodstock-Lincoln, New Hampshire, August 12-15, 1953

Undoubtedly America’s favorite car, the Model “T” was manufactured from 1909 to 1927, a total of 19 years with little change in Engine and Chassis design. Changes were made during these years, however, but mostly in the body design and materials.

There were over 15,000,000 Model “T” Ford cars produced. The serial on this one is very low, however, the number being 12146.

The 4-cylinder 23-horsepower Model “T” was the farmer’s friend, the families pride and joy, and the country doctor’s salvation.

When new in 1909 this car sold for $950. Windshield, bulb-horn, and speedometer were available at extra cost. This car is equipped with a gas generator for the headlights and kerosene sidelamps and tail-light. Windshield wipers were usually part of the human anatomy, car heaters were in the form of Buffalo Robes and metal roofs were unheard of.

When 900,000 of the tin lizzies had rolled off the line, the price had dropped to $440, brand spankin’ new.

Many an old-timer has nursed one of these puddle jumpers up a long grade or out of a mud-hole, pushing it with the left foot.

From the early teens to the late twenties, the Highways of America were crawling with Ford cars. They far outnumbered all other makes combined. There were so many on the road, they were dubbed “Road Lice.”

This Model “T,” owned by the Clarks’ was last registered in 1921. She now has 4 brand new 30 x 3 1/2″ tires and tubes.

Two speeds forward and one reverse, and when you back up, “watch out!!” She kicks like a mule, runs like a Swiss watch, rides like a Rolls Royce, and is truly a pleasure to drive.

Restored by: W. Murray Clark

Brothers W. Murray and Edward Clark pose with a couple of bears, Ebony and Midnight, in the family’s 1909 Ford Model T Touring Car. Photo courtesy of Clark’s Bears.

NOTES

1. Clark, W. Murray. “1909 Model ‘T’ Touring Car.” In Old Home Week Program, Woodstock-Lincoln, New Hampshire, August 12, 13, 14, 15, 1953. Upper Pemigewasset Historical Society Collection.