A rare piece of automotive history has traveled its way back to Saginaw.
The Saginaw Cyclecar -- one of 35 produced in 1914 by the Valley Boat and Engine Company on Washington Avenue -- just arrived back in Saginaw from Oregon and is now on display at the
Castle Museum.
The original cross-country trek of the car, which has a motorcycle-sized motor, is a mystery, says Ruth Mancina, marketing and events coordinator for the museum. But it's one that museum officials plan to investigate now that the small car has found its way back to its hometown. It now will be displayed in the lobby of the museum.
"It is a significant piece of history that really showcases Saginaw's automotive legacy," she says.
Only a handful of the cars exist, and many are in parts, she says. Saginaw Cyclecars also were only produced for one year. So the two-passenger car is a very rare find.
The diminutive vehicle found its way back to Saginaw after the museum received a phone call from the existing owner. The car, which was restored and driven in a number of parades, was in good condition.
"[The owner] contacted us, and wanted to return it to Saginaw where he believe it belonged," Mancina says. "We're just happy that this guy contacted us."
Writer: Jenny Cromie
Source: The Castle Museum, Ruth Mancina
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