The Marmon Wasp Driven by Ray Harroun, Winner of the 1911 Indianapolis 500

Summary

The Indianapolis 500, America's premier automobile race, debuted in 1911. The inaugural event drew 40 qualifying cars and 80,000 spectators. Driver Ray Harroun won with his yellow #32 Marmon Wasp. Harroun's car featured an innovative rear-view mirror that let him see competitors behind him. It's believed to be the first use of such a mirror on a race car.

The Indianapolis 500, America's premier automobile race, debuted in 1911. The inaugural event drew 40 qualifying cars and 80,000 spectators. Driver Ray Harroun won with his yellow #32 Marmon Wasp. Harroun's car featured an innovative rear-view mirror that let him see competitors behind him. It's believed to be the first use of such a mirror on a race car.

Artifact

Photographic print

Date Made

1911-1911

Subject Date

1911

 On Exhibit

By Request in the Benson Ford Research Center

Object ID

P.O.2694

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Ford Motor Company.

Material

Paper (Fiber product)

Technique

Gelatin silver process

Color

Black-and-white (Colors)

Dimensions

Height: 3.5 in

Width: 4.625 in

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