The Atlas Automobile Company, seen in this circa 1904 photo, was an early dealer for Henry Ford in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The car that is closest to the curb in the center is a Ford Model A Runabout, which is described in glowing terms in the “The Ford” sign just above the garage door.
The other cars in the photo all appear to be earlier models that Atlas was trying to sell. In a quick survey of the five cars (left to right) we see an unknown, one that maybe an electric, the Ford, possibly a Winton and a steamer.
We have to wonder if this might have been the same company, also in Pittsburg that in 1906 and 1907 built the Atlas Automobile. That firm was located on on College Avenue, in the East End of Pittsburgh. Let us know if you can positively identify any of the cars in the photo, or the location. Many other interesting photos from The Henry Ford, (scroll down) can also be seen here on The Old Motor.
Perhaps the oldest used-car lot photo ever. And they grind skates! (?)
The second car on the left may be a Toledo steamer based on the round dash. Bob
This is how I like them best! From left to right: for the first car my best match is a 1903 Hoffman gasoline car; next indeed an electric, most likely a 1900 Columbia (but Waverley and American Electric are other options), followed by the model A Ford, a 1901 Winton and finally a 1900 Locomobile steamer.
I would be surprised if there would be any relation with the Atlas motor car, because this car (a Sunset in license) was built from 1906 in Springfield (Mass.) by the Knox Motor Truck Co. (founded by Harry A. Knox , after leaving the Knox Automobile Co.). In the 1906 Atlas adverts the phrase ‘NOT Knox Automobile Co.’ was added (!), but after lawsuits by the Knox Automobile Co. the name was changed to Atlas Motor Car Co. in 1907.
Ariejan, There was another Atlas Company that was in Pittsburg for only 1906-07, it appears not to be related to the Springfield Atlas at all. Follow the link in the post to learn more.
Ah, I see, apparently missed the Pittsburg Atlas. Sorry about that! About the Columbia suggestion: first I thought about Toledo too, because of the rounded form of the front. However I was not able to find a Toledo with such a high dashboard. All three mentioned electric cars also have the rounded form and the high(er) dashboard as well. In my opinion the 1900 Columbia has the closest resemblance.
David: Interesting as always! You might like this post on the excellent Scouting New York blog:
http://www.scoutingny.com/?p=6404
Thanks, that is quite interesting.
SteveH That’s excellent. Few family owned businesses transportion related or not can boast that kind of uninterrupted history. Thanks for posting it.