Last Surviving 1913 Pathfinder Up for Auction

The Motor Car Manufacturing Company of Indianapolis, Indiana, a reorganization of the Parry Automobile Company, introduced the Pathfinder model in 1912, selling it for $1,750, a price that placed it in Hudson’s and Cadillac’s zone. Now, what is believed to be the only surviving 1913 Pathfinder is about to hit the auction bloc, courtesy of RM Auctions.

“The 40-hp Pathfinder Touring Car presented here is the only example of its kind known to exist,” the auction house explains.

The car was ordered by Clark and Laura Rice of LaHarpe, Illinois, and at that time it came with “Option #1,” which comprised full electric equipment, including five lamps, a dynamo, an electric self-starter, a storage battery, ammeter, ventilating windshield, Stewart and Clark speedometer, foot rests, horn, a rear carrier and much, much more.

“The Rices passed the Pathfinder on to their son Earl B. Rice. Remarkably, the car remained in the family for more than 90 years. Earl Rice regularly entertained guests by taking them on tours of the family farm in the Pathfinder. In the summer of 1980, he took the car to Memoryville USA in Rolla, Missouri, where it was treated to a three-year, nut and bolt, concours-quality restoration by George L. Carney,” RM Auctions says.

Following the restoration, the Pathfinder was trailered to and from events, rarely being driven. It is adorned with extensive nickel plating, complemented by dark blue paint. The interior is upholstered with rich black leather. Brown trim and white painted wood wheels are also among the highlights.

“As part of a large collection, this car has seen little exercise in recent years and will require thorough professional inspection before being driven,” the seller warns.