The Marmon Wasp that won the first Indy 500 in 1911 is easily one of the most important race cars in existence. Here, renowned historian Donald Davidson tells its story.
In May of 2016, the Historic Vehicle Association enrolled the Marmon Wasp in its National Historic Vehicle Register. It was an obvious and inescapable choice. The winner of the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911, the Wasp has, somewhat miraculously for a race car, survived in largely original condition for more than a century. As the centerpiece of the priceless race car collection at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, the Wasp is, in our eyes, one of America’s national treasures.
To tell the story of the Marmon Wasp, driver Ray Harroun, and the Indy 500’s glorious history, the HVA selected a man we’ve also described as a national treasure: Speedway historian Donald Davidson. With his astonishing memory and knowledge of Indy racing lore, nobody knows the subject better than he does. In the next eight minutes, prepare to learn some facts about the Marmon Wasp and the 1911 Indianapolis 500 you didn’t know. VIdeo below.
In the aftermath of tropical storm Zeta, we have not had cable, internet or home phone for a while so I have been catching up on my reading. I am re-reading the wonderful book Black Noon by Art Garner. It is about the 1964 Indy 500. Just this morning I read the part where he mentioned Donaldson and his remarkable knowledge of the Indy 500 race history. Donaldson was at the track during the month of May, 1964. How delightful to see this video of him discussing the 1911 winner.
Oops, that’s Davidson not Donaldson.
Very good presentation! I’ve always been a fan of the Indy 500 and the cars and drivers through the years. The Marmon Wasp is definitely at the forefront. I was really upset when Parnelli Jones was driving it and the engine threw a rod. I was trying to follow up on the restoration of the engine but articles became rather scarce. I look forward to the day when I can see the Wasp up close and personal…