J. Frank Duryea

Who was J. Frank Duryea?

J. Frank Duryea and his brother Charles invented the first gas-powered automobile in America. Charles had the vision to get the idea off the ground. Frank had the diligence to see the project through to completion. Frank did 100% of the mechanical work and changed most of Charles's original design. It is more accurate to say that Frank Duryea invented the first gas-powered automobile in America in 1893-94.

The brothers were born in Illinois, Charles in 1861 and Frank in 1869. Both graduated from high school. Charles moved to Washington, DC, to work in the bicycle business. Frank followed closely on his heels in 1888. Two more moves in as many years brought the Duryea brothers to Springfield, Massachusetts. Charles had already earned a reputation for unusual design elements in his "sylph" bicycle, with a smaller wheel in front and a steering lever on the sides of the seat. Said one colleague, "Charles, it's a freak."

The two brothers researched the internal combustion engine at the Springfield public library. Charles drew the designs and made the connection with their chief investor, Erwin Markham. Markham provided $1000, which paid for space in an old machine shop, a collection of cast-off parts, including an old phaeton buggy, and Frank's $3-a-day salary. Charles went back to Illinois to follow other pursuits.