1909 Maxwell Model LD
























































































- Description
Jonathan Maxwell previously worked at the Olds Motor Works and Detroit's Northern Manufacturing Company. A trained machinist and engineer, he was invited to join Benjamin Briscoe in a new automotive venture in 1904. Briscoe and Maxwell took over the previous Mobile Company of America factory in Tarrytown, New York, and with start up capital from John D. Rockefeller they created the Maxwell-Briscoe Motor Company.
The two cylinder water cooled engine with mechanical intake valves was a wonderful design that proved to be very popular, making 1000 cars in their first year. Fast forwarding to 1909, sales manager Cadwallader Washburn Kelsey persuaded Alice Huyler Ramsey to drive three female friends across the country to San Fransisco in a Maxwell, becoming the first women to make the journey by car. In 1909, Maxwell achieved third place in the industry.
Offered here is a wonderful example of a 1909 Maxwell Model LD, Maxwell's 14 horsepower two cylinder opposed engined model. Equipped with a two speed planetary transmission, this Maxwell is a blast to drive. It was purchased by a Mr. John MacSweeney from the Merideth Auto Museum in New Hampshire in 1962 in completely unrestored original condition. Later it was restored by Mr. MacSweeney in the 1990's, having the very best work done by the best shops in the industry at the time. The engine and transmission were completely rebuilt by Steve Bono in New York and even the radiator was re-cored by "The Vintage Garage" in Massachusetts. The 1909 LD runs and drives extremely well and even has a belt driven electric starter that was installed by Mr. Bono at the time of the engine rebuild. It comes with photos and documentation of the restoration as well as a photo of the car as it was found in 1962. Its a great original two cylinder Maxwell that runs and drives great and would be a wonderful addition to an early car collection or a great car to tour with. Contact us today for more information!
Asking: $26,500