Talk:Duryea

Charles and Frank Duryea lived and grew up around and near Wyoming, IL, i.e. central Illinois, Canton, Roanoke-Benson ect. …It appears the fact that the first auto in the U.S.A was driven in Springfield Mass., might possibly be propaganda started by the A.A.A. of Springfield Mass. and Charles son, who grew up in that area and was a leading member of the A.A.A. chapter in that area. Now the fact that I grew up in Wyoming Ill. May have a lot to do with my point of view. I understand that Charles son is proud of his hometown, as am I, however why would Charles write a letter to his High school teacher stating that the first auto was driven in what is now known as Peoria Heights Ill. (at the time Duryea Heights).

What I am trying to say is this. In his letter to his teacher Charles is stating (nearly bragging) his accomplishments, which he has every right to do. This letter was eventually published in the Wyoming Post-Herald. In the letter he was very specific as what, when, and where these accomplishments had been made, Peoria Heights. Why then would he write his teacher a letter saying that the Duryea automobile was first run in Peoria Heights if it were not true? The answer is… He would not. Now mind you, It really does not matter where Charles was when he actually accomplished these revolutionary and monumental things except for the fact that what his son is trying to perpetuate is historically inaccurate if not down right wrong. Charles would not have been worried about where he was at that time and therefore he would not have lied about it to Dr. Sanham.