Members of the Horseless Carriage Club of America recently visited Joel Barlow High School, arriving in a striking collection of early automobiles that captured the attention of students and faculty alike. Their visit was a promotional for upcoming events celebrating antique vehicles and automotive history. Starting this Saturday, May 17th, the Staples Academy Foundation will have an early auto display at the Congregational Church Hall from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m., offering the public a close-up look at these meticulously preserved machines. Then, on May 24th at 10 am, enthusiasts can experience the excitement of vintage racing during a Sport Hill Race demonstration and celebration showcasing the speed and spirit of early motoring.
The Sport Hill Races in Easton, Connecticut, were among the nation’s premier early automobile hill climbs from 1902 to 1910. Organized by the Automobile Club of Bridgeport, these events attracted amateur and professional drivers, including factory-sponsored teams from manufacturers like Locomobile, Pope, and Isotta. The races took place on a challenging, mile-long course up Sport Hill Road, beginning at the Mill River Crossing in Plattsville and ending near Flat Rock Road. Spectators lined the narrow, winding road, making it one of the most popular racing venues in the northeastern U.S..
The 1908 race featured 59 entries and nine events, with competitors classified by vehicle price. The fastest time of the day was set by Al Poole driving a 50-horsepower Isotta-Fraschini, completing the course in 1 minute and 17 seconds, a new record for gasoline-powered cars. However, the 1909 race was marred by a tragic accident in which a vehicle lost control, injuring spectators and raising safety concerns. Despite this, the 1910 race was relocated to Snake Hill on Burr Street due to legal disputes and safety issues, marking the final race in the series. The event’s decline was also influenced by increasing liability concerns and local opposition.
Join in to learn more about how these races played a significant role in early American motorsport, contributing to the development of automotive technology and racing culture.
