Lesson 33

"Dispense With A Horse!"-The Winton Motor Carriage in Cleveland, 1896

OBJECTIVE:

Through the examination of a photograph, newspaper account and an advertisement, students will understand the impact Clevelander, Alexander Winton had on the automobile industry and Cleveland history. Students will compare an automobile of 1896 with cars of 1996.

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS:

• Fact Sheet
• Handout 1 - Winton Ad & Newspaper Account
• Handout 2 - Photograph of Winton
• Handout 3 - Winton Ad - A Lesson in Math

TERMS:

obnoxious, appurtenances, hydrocarbon, pneumatic

LESSON FOCUS:

1. What role did Cleveland play in the development of the automobile industry.
2. Who was Alexander Winton and what was the Winton Motor Carriage?
3. How do the automobiles of 1896 compare with automobiles today?
   

TEACHING PROCEDURES:

1. Ask students how they think most people traveled to work or shopping in 1896? When do they think people began to use automobiles? What would be the advantages of using automobiles? Disadvantages?
2. Recall the story of Winton and his impact on the automobile industry and Cleveland. Show them the picture of Mr. and Mrs. Winton in their first automobile. (this can be reproduced on a transparency or copies distributed) Have students analyze the photograph. What do they notice about the automobile? (tires, sitting arrangements, size) Compare to today's automobile. What about the occupants of the auto.
3. Distribute copies of the advertisements and newspaper article. Read the newspaper article. What does the article believe will be the effect of Winton's new automobile? (the horse will eventually be replaced by the automobile) What is the implication that this new motor carriage can be operated by a woman? (it is easy to operate) How is this automobile different than those from Europe? (doesn't have obnoxious appurtenances - objectionable accessories)
4. Have students read through the advertisement. Discuss the advertisement. Have students identify the descriptive words (best, handsomely, strongly, lightly constructed, elegantly finished, easily managed) What are the special features? (hydrocarbon motor, no odor, no vibrations, suspension wire wheels, pneumatic tires, ball bearings) Why would you want to buy a motor carriage? (to get rid of your horse and the expense, care and anxiety of keeping them) Have students complete the Advertisement Math Analysis. Review their answers and discuss, Compare prices and costs with cars today. How are automobile ads different today? Students can do a comparison chart of automobiles of 1896 with cars today. They should include features as well as costs.