This 1909 International Harvester was originally purchased by a Dr. Hendricks in Ballground, GA for the Coca Cola Bottling Plant. It has a Southern tread of 60 inches instead of the standard 56 inches to allow it to better navigate in wagon ruts. This was also a deluxe version including fenders, a top and being rated at ½ ton.

In 2011, after 90 years of inactivity it was pulled out of the barn by the current owner and they were able to get it running again.

The 1909 International Harvester vehicles are notable for their role in the early development of motorized transportation, particularly in rural and agricultural settings. Reflecting the utilitarian roots of their manufacturer, these vehicles prioritized durability, functionality, and reliability. Today, they are appreciated by collectors and historians for their contribution to the mechanization of agriculture and the early automotive industry.

Overview

• Production Year: 1909
• Manufacturer: International Harvester Company (IHC)
• Class: Early automobile / Light commercial vehicle
• Body Style: Typically offered as a roadster, delivery wagon, or other utilitarian body styles

Design and Specifications

• Engine:
  • The 1909 International Harvester vehicles were typically powered by simple, robust engines.
  • Commonly used engines included two-cylinder or four-cylinder engines.
  • These engines were designed for durability and ease of maintenance rather than high performance.
• Transmission:
  • The vehicles often featured a manual transmission, with a limited number of gears (usually two or three forward gears and one reverse).
  • The transmission system was designed to handle the low speeds and heavy loads typical of early 20th-century vehicles.
• Chassis:
  • The chassis was constructed from sturdy materials, designed to withstand the rigors of rural and agricultural use.
  • It featured a straightforward, utilitarian design aimed at reliability and durability.
• Suspension:
  • The suspension system was basic, typically using leaf springs to provide some degree of comfort and load-carrying capacity.
• Brakes:
  • Braking was achieved through mechanical drum brakes or band brakes, offering basic stopping power suitable for the vehicle's performance capabilities.

Performance

• Top Speed: The top speed of the 1909 International Harvester vehicles was relatively low, typically around 20-30 mph (32-48 km/h), reflecting their utilitarian nature and the road conditions of the time.
• Acceleration: Acceleration was modest, with an emphasis on torque and pulling power rather than speed.
• Handling: The vehicles were designed for stability and durability, with handling characteristics suited to rural and off-road use.

Design Features

• Bodywork:
  • The bodywork of the 1909 International Harvester vehicles was simple and functional, often featuring open designs for ease of use and versatility.
  • Common body styles included roadsters, delivery wagons, and light trucks, reflecting the diverse needs of rural and commercial users.
• Interior:
  • The interior was utilitarian, with basic seating and minimal instrumentation.
  • Comfort and luxury were secondary to functionality and ease of use.
• Styling:
  • The styling was straightforward and rugged, reflecting the vehicle's primary use in agricultural and rural settings.
  • The emphasis was on practicality and durability rather than aesthetic appeal.

Legacy and Historical Significance

• Historical Significance:
  • The 1909 International Harvester vehicles represent an important period in automotive history when companies from various industries were exploring the potential of motorized transportation.
  • These vehicles highlight the transition from horse-drawn carriages to motorized vehicles in rural and agricultural communities.
• Cultural Impact:
  • The vehicles produced by International Harvester in this era played a significant role in the mechanization of agriculture and rural life.
  • They provided farmers and rural businesses with reliable transportation and delivery options, contributing to the modernization of the agricultural industry. 

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

You may purchase a print of the 1909 International Harvester in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.

The Vintage Automobile Article Index