Iowa Historical Society's 1917 Model 27

1917 Milburn Light Electric (was listed as a 1916)
Photo
Photo by Clarence Milburn
Owner: State Historical Society of Iowa
Email: Bill Johnson (Bill.Johnson-at-dca.state.ia.us)
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Serial number (frame stamp): 2-355-7
Motor number (title): 458312
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Model: 1917 Milburn Light Electric Model 27
Wheels: Wire
Color: Deep royal blue, with black running gear and white wheels.
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Motor: General Electric 1051E1 Number 458312
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Additional features: License # 25-1338
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Owner's remarks: In 1918, Iowa Governor George W. and Arletta Clark purchased this 1917 Milburn Electric as a Used car when they left office to return to Adel, Iowa. It served as Arletta Clark's car for the next 23 years; the Governor didn't enjoy driving. "It's the ideal car for a lady to drive. It is very easy to drive and completely silent. I have a great deal of enjoyment, using it for shopping and making calls." (Arletta Green Clark, 1941)

03/08/2005 Update: As we have begun to investigate the potential for restoring this vehicle, it appears that two items loom as troublesome:
* The fabric for the seats and wall treatment.
* The appropriate batteries or batter casements.
We would welcome any suggestions on where we might look to find suitable replacements. We are not intending to drive the vehicle simply make it usable for the interpretation of the technology and its use. - William (Bill) Johnson

10/02/2011 Update: Article in Fins and Fenders regarding this Milburn: Feb2010 Milburn Electric Paved the Way for Today's Plug-In Cars