Automobiles
The first car driven in Elmira was a 1898 Winton owned by Dr. William H. Fisher. During the 1900s and 1910s, cars were the playthings of the well-to-do and the bane of everyone they shared the road with. In 1922, there was 1 car for every 14 people in Chemung County. By 1930, there was 1 for every 5. More cars meant more congestion and increased demand for paved roads and parking. By the 1950s, all urban and suburban development was built around the idea that everyone drove. During the 1960s, the populations of Big Flats, Southport, Erin, and Van Etten swelled as improved roads made it easier to commute to work in Elmira or Corning.
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Corner of Lake and East Water Streets, Elmira, 1913
In the first quarter of the 20th century, cars competed with horses, trolleys, and pedestrians for control of the road. Pedestrian deaths and injuries skyrocketed until the city passed anti-jaywalking laws and installed traffic lights in the 1920s.
Truck made in Elmira by Hatfield Auto Truck Co. in 1912
Several companies manufactured automobiles in Elmira including: Eclipse Bicycle Company (1896-1904); Hatfield Auto Truck Company (1906-1913); and Eagle Motor Carriage Company (1908). Eclipse and Willys-Morrow Co. also made car parts.
Pennzoil Company station at 951 Lake Street, Elmira, 1922
In 1904, the sporting goods store Elmira Arms Company was the only place to buy gas in Chemung County. By 1922, there were several dozen gas and service stations in Elmira alone.
Stock car racing at Chemung Speedrome, c. 1950s
On June 15, 1951, the Finger Lakes Racing Association held its first stock car race on Eli Bodine’s farm in the Town of Chemung. The site eventually became the Chemung Speedrome. All three of Bodine’s sons became professional racecar drivers.
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Concept drawing for the Arnot Mall in Big Flats, 1966
Suburban malls were built around the idea that everyone could drive to them. Today, it is almost impossible to shop in Chemung County without driving or taking the bus.