1908 Cameron Model 9

Generously Lent by Dick Shappy Vintage Autos

• 4-cylinder air-cooled engine

• New England built car

• One of two of the Model 9 known to survive

In 1908 Cameron introduced four models of the 20hp 4-cylinder car, this accommodates four passengers for $1100, still with air-cooling and a round bonnet much like the contemporary Franklin Car Company. The patented gearbox mounted on the rear axle, a feature that was retained until the end of Cameron production in 1920.

Few cars have had so many changes of address and company organization as the Cameron. Built by the United Motor Co, Pawtucket, R.I., 1902 – 1903, and the James Brown Machine Corp, Pawtucket, R.I., 1903 – 1904. During the Rhode Island period, it began as a light two-seater powered by a 6hp single-cylinder air-cooled engine using a shaft drive.

In 1905, the Cameron Car Co. was established in Brockton, MA, producing larger vehicles equipped with 2- or 3- cylinder air-cooled engines generating up to 12hp. Manufacturing was moved to Brockton, MA and New London, CT in 1905 – 1908, then moved to Beverly MA and continuing in New London in 1908- 1912.

A Cameron six-cylinder was built for a short time in the New London factory, and in 1913 came the first Cameron cars with water-cooled engines. Apart from the position of the gearbox, the later Cameron cars were conventional cars, though the 1917 Cameron models added adjustable cantilever suspension. The Stamford factory was bought in 1917, and a 6-cylinder car was built in small numbers until 1921.

More history about Cameron can be found online at dickshappyclassiccars.com and prewarcar.com.

Specifications:

Engine: 4-cylinder air-cooled

Power: 20 hp

Transmission: Patented 3-speed rear axle mounted gearbox

Suspension: Elastic spring, large wheels

Top Speed: 45 mph

Fuel Economy: 25 mpg