1902 Oldsmobile Model R Curve Dash, with tightrope walker overhead, publicity stunt, Detroit 

This rare early-20th-century photograph captures a remarkable publicity stunt involving a 1902 Oldsmobile Curved Dash Runabout, one of the most important automobiles in motoring history. The image shows the lightweight runabout ascending a timber ramp while a tightrope walker performs above the vehicle — a dramatic demonstration designed to capture public attention and build confidence in the emerging motor car.

The Curved Dash Oldsmobile, produced by Oldsmobile, was America’s first high-volume, mass-produced petrol automobile. Affordable, simple, and reliable, it helped introduce motoring to a broad public and became a cornerstone of early automotive success under the leadership of Ransom E. Olds.

Publicity stunts such as this were common in the early 1900s, when automobiles were still viewed with skepticism. By combining mechanical spectacle with human daring, manufacturers proved that motor cars were not only practical, but robust and trustworthy. The Curved Dash Model R featured a single-cylinder engine producing approximately 4–5 horsepower, tiller steering, and a top speed of around 20 mph — modest by modern standards, yet revolutionary at the time.

This photograph stands as a striking visual record of early automotive marketing, innovation, and showmanship — a moment where engineering ambition met public theatre in the dawn of the motoring age.

Digital download: Suitable for up to A5/A6 (7x5) printing 

Image reflects real-life scenes from the period.

Digital PDF download - The image is offered as a historical digital reproduction.

About this image

- Image quality reflects the original source material and restoration process, if any.
- This is an authentic photograph that has been digitised for preservation and enjoyment.
- Due to the age and original source material, image quality may vary between items.
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Suitable for

- Personal reference
- Research and study
- Historical interest
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- Not permitted for resale, redistribution, or commercial reuse

Printing

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