1912 White Model 30 G.A.D. Roadster Chassis no. 17143

As with today's auction, for many there is no better experience than attending a collection dispersal sale, and through the peak of his buying Frank Spain was clearly present at many of these events across the country. When it came to the White here, its file starts with the 'hook' of a 'Large Estate Sale' that was to be held in David City, near Omaha, Nebraska on what must have been an extremely cold late January day in 1993. The seller was Leo Bongers, who had amassed more than 100 of all sorts of cars, a dozen motorcycles, automobile parts and signs etc. and on his death it all had to be sold. Photos from the day of sale show remarkable vehicles such as this literally lined up outside in the sun, and press reports chart thousands of people attending the auction.

Amazingly, this is as much as we know of the White's history. What can safely be assumed is that Leo Bongers appreciated this car for its originality and authenticity, which was also what drew Frank Spain to the car. Without a paper trail, one can only guess at the car's history, but the fact of the matter is that however many or few owners this car has had all must have cherished it, and fortunately for collectors today, it presents an incredible timewarp unrestored automobile the likes of which are rarely found.

Viewed very closely, almost all of its finishes appear to be original, the upholstery is dry but for the most part undamaged and there are no obvious omissions to its specifications or original features. At some point, seemingly quite early on in its career an ancillary starter motor has been fitted to the White, with a large lever control on the dash, such that this also blends in with its condition.

Perhaps the most extraordinary aspect of the car is the consistency of its state, paint, upholstery and plating are all gently aged over their 107 years of existence, making an incredibly rewarding automobile to marvel at.

Frank Spain clearly saw the importance of this special automobile more than 25 years ago, before preservation had been highlighted as a contrast feature of concours around the world. Today it would surely provide its next custodian with an entry to some of the most hallowed lawns and would likely steal the class or show.