For more than three decades, the Pierce-Arrow Motor Car Company of Buffalo, New York, was among the most respected and renowned automakers in America. Hard to believe the company responsible for producing the grandest of luxury cars began by building bird cages and household products, then bicycles, prior to automobiles.

The Model 38 gets its name from the corresponding horsepower produced by its inline six-cylinder engine. It is one of just 1,647 cars produced by Pierce-Arrow in 1916, due in part to the fact that it cost $4,300 when new, compared to a Ford Model T Touring, which was just $360 in 1916!

According to the consignor, this car was purchased new in Long Beach, California, by Frank B. Cox. He sold the Pierce to Richard Squires of Hughson, California, who became short on money. Squires sold the car to Edmund Gibes of Wisconsin. When Squires’ finances improved, he bought the car back from Gibes who then kept it for the next 65 years. Gibes transferred ownership to Robert Schertle who sold it to the consignor in 2015. It is a well-preserved, mostly original car with an equally lovely patina. Finished in maroon with black fenders and beltline, the black leather interior is fitted with period canvas dust covers, successfully preserving much of the originality of the car.

It is equipped with dual side-mount spare tires, a full set of side curtains, Westinghouse shocks, a Boyce Moto Meter, trunk rack, tilt-out windshield, wood steering wheel, painted artillery wheels, and other wonderful period features. A 1964 AACA First Prize Winner badge is prominently displayed, indicative of its earlier history.

Now recognized by the CCCA, it will be eligible for all club CARavans and events. The notable build quality and durability of early Pierce-Arrows make them ideal tour vehicles for today’s collectors.