Ms. Bates and the other women tested each of the behemoth trucks by driving them over a 75-mile course. These runs had to be completed before a truck was delivered or shipped
In January 1920, Bates drove a Model B to New York City, where she attended the New York Auto Show.
Bates was such a hit in New York that Four Wheel Drive decided to use her skills even further. Later that year, they sent her on three transcontinental tours throughout the United States.
Luella would undergo several whirlwind tours across America in her trusted Model B truck. Her first tour would take her to approximately 25 towns, beginning in Kansas City, Missouri, and finishing in Bellefontaine, Ohio
descending Laurel Hill grade between Bedford and Chambersburg, Pa, July 9, 1919
entering Chicago Heights in 1919
F.W.D. in city parade in Sacramento California September 3, 1919
The advertising scheme introduced the idea that the FWD truck was easy to steer, as evidenced by a woman driver.
Luella would undergo several whirlwind tours across America in her trusted Model B truck. Her first tour would take her to approximately 25 towns, beginning in Kansas City, Missouri, and finishing in Bellefontaine, Ohio
These 3-ton trucks (chassis #8044, #8175, #13325) distinguished themselves by navigating challenging terrains in Nebraska, Wyoming, Utah, and Nevada without assistance. Their ability to traverse muddy and sandy stretches unaided set a commendable record.
descending Laurel Hill grade between Bedford and Chambersburg, Pa, July 9, 1919
the F.W.D trucks are seen only occasionally in the 1919 military convoy films because of their reliability.
F.W.D trucks rarely broke down, making them less dramatic for film scenes. In contrast, scenes of other trucks struggling in mud were more visually entertaining, leading to more screen time for less reliable vehicles.
entering Chicago Heights in 1919
F.W.D. in city parade in Sacramento California September 3, 1919
During her final tour of 1920, Bates took the southern states by storm. She was now known as "our girl driver."
In Pennsylvania, they swapped the carbs from Model G to Model M Strombergs, and found a 25% increase in mpg
In Oklahoma, she defied the police and took her truck across a flooded road, hauling meat for a packaging plant. This courageous venture led to the sale of ten trucks for Four Wheel Drive and much admiration for Bates.
In 1922, Luella left the FWD Auto Company and moved to Milwaukee. She later married Howard Coates and had two sons. She died in 1985 at the age of 88.
Her granddaughter is the actress Ashley Hinshaw, who married Topher Grace
No comments:
Post a Comment