The History of Gas Powered Miniature Race Cars
The following articles were written by the author and published in the Model Engine Collectors Association (MECA) Bulletin. The purpose of the articles is to attempt to preserve the history of gas powered miniature car racing. Click on a photo to learn more...
Three-part article tracing the earliest history of gas powered miniature car racing in the United States, continuing through the formation of the American Miniature Racing Car Association (AMRCA), the establishment of competition rules, and the election of the first slate of AMRCA officers.
In the Beginning... Parts 1 - 3.
In the Beginning... Part 4. Dick Hulse's Influence on Mite Cars
The article documents the efforts of Dick Hulse directed toward organizing tether car racing in the United States and his leadership role in establishing the AMRCA. Long a proponent of the smaller size Class A cars, Hulse's championship winning Thermite .36 powered Hulse Hustler is also featured in the article.
In the Beginning... Part 5. Charles Penn's Influence on Mite Cars
The article describes the contribution of Charles Penn, publisher of Model Craftsman magazine, toward organizing tether car racing as well as his support of smaller, less expensive cars. The article describes a car of this type, the Pegasus, a home-built car based on plans published in Model Craftsman magazine.
More articles will be added in the near future.
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Ridin' the Rails in Tyrone
The article documents the history of the Tyrone, PA rail track, one of the few rail tracks in the country where both rail mites and the larger .60-size rail cars were raced. The article also focuses on the track's owner, Jack Vanneman, and his tireless efforts to promote rail track racing and to introduce new competitors to the hobby by building inexpensive modified Real McCoy mite cars for rail racing.
Ridin' the Rails in Chicago
The article describes the history behind the construction of a small indoor rail track located in the field house in Calumet Park in Chicago. Also included are some of the cars which raced on the track, as well as a brief discussion of the track's eventual demise.
Found! Lud Kading's Race Cars
The article discusses the Infant-powered "air car" as well as the Infant- and Torpedo, Jr.-powered GadJet "wheel drive" cars which were raced in Lud Kading's shop at K&B Manufacturing Company.