1915 Simplex-Crane Model 5 Sport Berline

Alexander Agassiz was a scientist and engineer who spent much of his time here in Newport. As one of the wealthiest men of his time, he acquired a peninsula in Newport and built a substantial house and laboratory, today known as Castle Hill Inn. Agassiz lived there and studied marine zoology for many years, becoming a popular individual in Newport society due to his unique passion and intelligence. After Alexander’s death in 1910, the Agassiz family continued living at their summer home in Newport. The family bought this 1916 Simplex Crane Model 5 Sport Berline right off the floor of the New York Auto Show and used it here in Newport for several years. 

Simplex-Crane produced some of the finest and most expensive automobiles of the time, with notable owners such as John Rockefeller and Frederick Vanderbilt. Powerful engines, high attention to detail and low production numbers resulted in automobiles that were extremely desirable to those who could afford them. The Simplex was just as durable as it was attractive, and because the original inline-six engine was so well built, it was used throughout production with few changes if any. Cast in two blocks of three cylinders, with all valves on one side, the engine developed 100-110 hp at 1800-2000rpm.

This Simplex-Crane has a beautiful, enclosed body built by Brewster, who was also a sales agent for Rolls-Royce. The coachwork on this Model 5 Sport Berline is sporty as its name suggest, though also elegant with a plethora of unique details. The car was sold with a fitted truck with luggage to match, which sat between the body and the dual spare tires in the rear. Fantastic details can be observed throughout the car, even where you may not expect them; the hardware throughout the entire car is of cast German silver, and the instrument panel houses a range of instruments of the highest quality in its day, including a removable Waltham clock. Other interesting accessories include a four-cylinder air pump mounted on the side of the engine, a full set of original tools including a water pump wrench, custom one-off headlamps, and a French Cicca Boa Constrictor horn mounted on the left side of the car. 

Specifications:

Engine: 564 C.I. Inline-Six 
Horsepower: 110 
Transmission: Four-Speed Manual 

On loan from Charles & Aline LeMaitre, Hardwick, MA