Canastota celebrates 110th anniversary of The Great Race of 1908 with Canalside Talk
This year marks an important anniversary in automotive history: 110 years ago a race began that changed the perception of the “horseless carriage” from a novelty for the rich to a viable means of transportation for everyone.
The 1908 New York-to-Paris Race was an epic challenge of men and machines, with only three of the six entries actually making it to Paris. More importantly, everyone survived the competition in spite of blizzards, bandits, bad food and no roads along the 22,000-mile route. The American auto “Thomas Flyer” won the race.
Bill Coffin, Chittenango resident and Canal Town member, worked with the museum to develop a study of the 1908 New York-to-Paris Race as an important part of Canastota and Central New York history.
Coffin will detail the entire race with emphasis on the amazing hardships and amusing events that took place here in Central New York. Stories of the American and Italian teams will provide the audience with a factual and entertaining evening.