Sunday Favorites: Vintage Velocity

The introduction of mass-production motorcars in 1908 ignited a nationwide passion for speed, prompting people to test their cars' endurance through racing. On July 4, 1910, a 60-mile round trip automobile race from Bradentown to Mitchellville (present-day East County) saw Edison Curry claim a trophy, fueling plans for an even bigger race  the following year, according to Cindy Russell, records librarian at the Historical Records Library, in her article "Manatee History Matters: Manatee's Great Race in 1911."

The dust had barely settled from the previous race when plans for the next race, from Tampa to Bradentown, the former spelling of Bradenton, were already underway. This race was more structured than its predecessor, with well-defined rules published in the June 22, 1911 edition of the Manatee River Journal.

.The race welcomed all types of cars, unrestricted by class or size, with each vehicle required to carry an observer alongside the driver. Kicking off at 8 a.m. from Six Mile Creek Road in Tampa, the route wove through Riverview, Willow, Mitchellville Bridge, Mill Creek Bridge, Platt's Bridge across the Braden River, Oneco, and Manatee, culminating at Courthouse Square in Bradentown.

Cars launched at six-minute intervals, adhering to strict overtaking protocols and ensuring disabled vehicles were promptly cleared from the road. Scoring was rigorous, awarding points for the best time and car reliability while penalizing delays and mechanical failures. Each car proudly displayed a large number on its hood or radiator, with starting positions drawn by lot. The Tampa Automobile Club oversaw pre-race inspections, while Bradentown's Automobile Club appointed race judges and technical committees.

The race promised glory and prizes, enticing nonprofessional drivers with its no-entry-fee policy. To boost performance, participants could strip their cars of tops, windshields, and lamps, setting the stage for a thrilling and fiercely competitive event.

According to the Manatee County Historical Archives, nearly 4,000 onlookers attended the event, enjoying a free barbecue dinner accompanied by coffee and lemonade. While the beverages were complimentary, guests were asked to bring their own cups, according to Russell.

As everyone eagerly awaited the cars to appear at the finish line, the event was filled with entertainment. Secondary motorcycle races took place up and down Manatee Avenue, offering a $25 gold piece as the prize. Additionally, other races organized by the Bradentown Automobile and Motor Boat Club occurred simultaneously, adding to the excitement.

If that wasn't enough entertainment, a championship baseball game between Palmetto and Bradenton rivals took place nearby, alongside harness races and bicycle races, providing a variety of thrilling activities for the spectators.

Roadways in those days were not a smooth operation, one participant recounted navigating "987" bumps, treacherous mudholes, and washouts with success. In a race that lasted just under two hours, Harry Land clinched victory in the Runabout Class with his Buick (1 hour 43 minutes), while Mr. Ferman triumphed in the Touring Car class driving a Cadillac (1 hour 56 minutes). Edison Curry's Stoddard-Dayton secured first place in the speed race for Class A, while John Vanderipe's EMF emerged victorious in Class B, with Henry Curry's Everett claiming second place in the same category.

While the baseball game was rained out, resulting in Bradentown being awarded the win and a $16 gold prize, the day remained enjoyable for most attendees. However, there were unexpected mishaps: an Angora goat and a reporter both fell out of the Tampa Times press car during the festivities.

The 1911 race from Tampa to Bradentown stands as a testament to early automotive enthusiasm, blending competition, community spirit, and unexpected twists that continue to intrigue historians and enthusiasts alike.