Discover Racing History: 1911 Marmon Wasp at The Henry Ford

The Henry Ford Partners with the Hagerty Drivers Foundation to Showcase the 1911 Marmon Wasp.

DEARBORN, Mich., July 17, 2024 — The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is currently showcasing the 1911 Marmon Wasp in the NHVR exhibition space. This vehicle was added to the exhibit through a collaboration between the Henry Ford and the Hagerty Drivers Foundation. You can view the exhibit until November.

The Wasp won the first Indianapolis 500-mile race in 1911 and is considered one of America’s most important race cars. Ray Harroun, an engineer, airplane pilot, and race car driver, custom-built and drove the single-seat Marmon to victory. It is believed to be one of the first cars to use a rearview mirror, giving Harroun an advantage as he didn’t need a passenger to watch traffic behind him. In the 100-plus years of racing at the Indianapolis track, the annual Memorial Day competition has become one of the most significant races in the world, drawing huge crowds every year.

Located in Dearborn, Michigan, the Henry Ford is a renowned destination that encourages inspiration and learning through hands-on experiences with artifacts. It boasts the most comprehensive collection in America, focusing on innovation, ingenuity, and resourcefulness.

Source: The Henry Ford