Rediscovering a Forgotten Pioneer: Benjamin F. Harris III & his Speedster

In this episode of The Logbook, our History of Motorsports series, John Yasenko recounts the discovery and historical significance of a unique 1935 front-wheel-drive speedster created by Benjamin F. Harris III. Initially found in a neglected state in 1987, this speedster led to extensive research revealing Harris's influential role as an early industrial designer and motorsports architect. Harris contributed significantly to the development of American road racing, collaborated with notable figures like Harley Earl and Jim Kimberly, and played a key role in establishing Road America racetrack. The episode delves into Harris's innovative design elements, his associations with automotive icons, and his advocacy for safety measures like seat belts and roll bars. Harris's impactful legacy culminates in his posthumous induction into the SECA Walk of Fame in 2020. The episode also discusses the car's current state and its ongoing restoration, underscoring the importance of preserving Harris's contributions to automotive history.

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00:00 Discovery of the Harris Speedster
01:15 Ben Harris: The Man Behind the Machine
02:54 Innovative Design Elements of the Harris Speedster
03:33 Harris's Collaborations and Achievements
05:27 Racing Legacy and Contributions to Motorsport
09:36 Involvement in SCCA and Road America
17:29 Advocacy for Safety in Motorsport
24:29 Legacy and Induction into the Walk of Fame
29:15 Conclusion and Acknowledgements

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This episode is part of our HISTORY OF MOTORSPORTS SERIES and is sponsored in part by: The International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC), The Society of Automotive Historians (SAH), The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Argetsinger Family - and was recorded in front of a live studio audience.