1916 Rauch & Lang

edited by David Barth, 30 January 2009.
Courtesy The Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. Photos were taken in January 2009.

Residents of Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio's famed "Millionaires Row," greatly enjoyed their Rauch & Lang electrics. Avenue families such as the Hannas and the Mathers, had been driving highest quality carriages made by the company since the 1860's, so it was an easy transition to the company's "horseless" carriages. By 1910 "R & L's" had become the second most popular automobile of Avenue residents, behind baker. The wealthy residents of the Avenue preferred electrics because they were clean, virtually noiseless, and did not lead fluids or expel smelly fumes. Their short range was acceptable for Avenue residents who spent their time visiting one another and the ease of operation meant the cars were perfect for women family members who were unable to turn the cranks necessary to start the early gas-powered cars.

Featuring what has come to be classic electric car "phone booth" styling, this Model "J6" is also equipped with dual steering, brake, and motor controls allowing the vehicle to be driven from either the front seat or from the back seat. The car has a top speed of 26 mph, with six forward gears and three reverse gears. The power is supplied by 42 6-volt batteries.

Model: J6, Double Control
Body Style: Four passenger coach
Wheelbase: 100 inches
Brake Horsepower: 2 1/2 horsepower
Top Speed: 26 mph; 13 mph "favorable speed"
Manufacturer: Baker, Rauch & Lang Company
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
Original Factory Price: $3,000

Donor: Donald Burnham