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Stanley Steamer: Books - History and Models

Looking for a book on Stanley cars? Discover here the best illustrated books on the history, types and construction of Stanley cars.

Mr. Stanley of Estes Park

This book presents the life of Freelan Oscar (F.O.) Stanley, an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and pioneer in transportation from Kingfield, Maine. Together with his twin brother, F.E. Stanley, he achieved success producing photographic dry plates and later the Stanley Steamer automobile.

After being forced to move west due to tuberculosis, Stanley settled in Estes Park, Colorado, where he transformed a small, rustic town into a world-class resort. The Stanley Hotel, a grand centerpiece, became a symbol of his vision, attracting visitors and promoting the development of automobile tourism in the West.

Through detailed narrative and illustrations, the book brings to life Stanley's entrepreneurial spirit, his contributions to transportation innovation, and his role in shaping Estes Park as a tourist destination. It also explores his broader impact on early American industry and tourism, highlighting the enduring legacy of one of the West's most remarkable figures.

Product details

Author:	James H. Pickering
Details:	362 pages, 9.1 x 5.9 x 0.79 in (23 x 15 x 2 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	many b&w photos
Publisher:	Stanley Museum (USA, 2000)
ISBN:	9781886727052

Mr. Stanley of Estes Park

Language: English

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The Stanleys of Newton - Yankee Tinkerers in the Gilded Age

This book explores the lives of Francis E. and Freelan O. Stanley, identical twins from Kingfield, Maine, who became influential inventors and entrepreneurs.
Settling in Newton, Massachusetts, they first founded the Stanley Dry Plate Company (1890-1904), later sold to Eastman Kodak, and then the Stanley Motor Carriage Company (1902-1924), makers of the Stanley Steamer automobile.
The Steamer was one of America's most successful early "alternative power" cars and a strong competitor on local racetracks.

Beyond industry, the Stanleys were active in the cultural life of Newton and Boston. They supported symphonies, opera companies, and social clubs, and even handcrafted concert-quality violins that remain prized today.

Based on extensive research, including family diaries and archival material, this book provides insight into both the Stanleys' innovations and their social influence at the turn of the 20th century.
With over 250 pages of indexed research, many rarely-seen photographs, and detailed illustrations, "The Stanleys of Newton" is an essential resource for readers interested in early American industry, photography, steam cars, music, and Newton-area history.

Product details

Author:	Karen H. Dacey
Details:	252 pages, 9.25 x 6.1 x 0.51 in (23.5 x 15.5 x 1.3 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	many b&w photos
Publisher:	Stanley Museum (USA, 2009)
ISBN:	9781886727151