A Century of Progress

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A Century of Progress Produced: 1921

Description The original catalog description provided by the Ford Motor Company reads as follows: “If we could go back to the year 1800 many things would appear so different and strange to us that we would seem to be looking upon another world.” “We now live in a world of steam and electricity, but in 1800 there were no steam-cars or steam-boats, and the many uses of electricity were unknown.” “In 1800 short trips were made on horseback or in heavy coaches but for long distance travel the prairie schooner was utilized.” Horseback riders and horse-drawn covered wagon fording stream. “Today --” “In 1800 produce was carried to market in the oxcart, and the distance traveled did not exceed 10 or 15 miles a day.” Horseback riders with oxcart. “But now it is necessary to limit the speed of trucks in order to save the roads.” Worker unloading milk cans from truck - truck and automobile traffic on paved road. “In 1800 there were no railroads. The first passenger train in America was built in 1831 and looked like this.” Drawing of train on mountainside. “Rapid transit now is a necessity. The nation is linked together from ocean to ocean by steel rails.” Map of United States showing railroad systems across country. “It was Robert Fulton who first established steam navigation as a commercial success. In August, 1807, he launched the ‘Clermont’ and in 30 days she was making trips regularly between New York and Albany.” Side-wheel steamship at dock. “In 1819 the steamship ‘Savannah’ sailed into the harbor of Liverpool, England, 25 days out from Savannah. This was the first time a steamship had crossed the Atlantic.” Freighter under way. “Now, America has fleets of ships such as these.” Ship being launched sideways. “In 1800 electricity was unheard of -- now the telegraph and telephone make almost instant communication possible.” Map of United States, telephone service across country indicated. “And even the railroad train may become obsolete, for aeroplanes are now used to carry freight, mail and passengers.” Pilot in open cock-pit plane from behind. “Now, all this work may be done by motor-driven machinery.” Tractor-drawn plow and harvester. “The End of Part One.” “Ford Educational Library.” [1921]

https://catalog.archives.gov/id/92749

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National Archives

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