At first blush, my thought was that the Eshelman mini-car was a child’s pedal car, but that’s not the case, it’s actually powered. And while this child sports car (CSC) is truly toy-like, the Cheston L. Eshelman Company produced other varieties that had more realistic automotive aspirations. That being the case, let’s take a brief look at the history of this unknown-to-me company and this curious little car, which is located in Farmingdale, New Jersey and is available, here on Facebook Marketplace for $1,700. Thanks to Chuck F for this unique find!
One of the first things that I noticed about the diminutive sports car is its manufacturer’s tag which states that the Eshelman company was located at 119 Light Street in Baltimore. In the very early ’80s, I worked for a financial endeavor that was located at 10 Light Street which would have been just two blocks to the north. Even though it was 40 years ago, that area of town was bereft of most of its former industrial self at that point and I don’t recall a factory structure at or near that address. Google Earth, today, indicates that it’s a multilevel parking garage.
Anyway, the Eshelman Company was formed in 1942 and built both children’s and adult mini-cars that were powered by Briggs and Stratton, lawnmower-like engines. Eshelman’s total product line-up included, “small American automobiles and other vehicles and implements including motor scooters, garden tractors, pleasure boats, aircraft, golf carts, snowplows, trailers, mail-delivery vehicles and more” – there was even an aircraft production division. The 1960s saw an ill-fated and unapproved project that involved rebadged and trimmed Chevrolet Corvairs, and finally, a project to create a 15 MPH safety bumper that could be affixed to a full-sized automobile. After relocating to Florida, Eshelman called it quits in 1967. You can read more about Cheston Eshelman and his unique vehicle company here.
Not much is said about this 1955 CSC other than it has been sitting for 30 years and, “These are rare and have a really cool history. What you see is what you get. I do have the original hand throttle mechanism“. It’s an interesting design as it is stamped steel with a front end that looks like the back end. It appears as if the heavily faded red finish is a repaint, probably applied many years ago over what was an original yellow hue. There was more than likely a hood and both front and rear grilles prominently featured at one time but they appear to be among the missing.
The single-cylinder, horizontal-shaft, Briggs and Stratton engine, appears to be a two HP unit that is capable of a supposed 15 MPH top speed. There’s a strong likelihood, this motor hasn’t turned a lick in a long time. The drive mechanism works by a belt-drive, connected to the front-mounted engine via a centrifugal clutch, that then turns a shaft with chain sprockets set inboard of both rear wheels – positraction!
Considered a two-passenger model, this CSC is going to be a tight fit for two unless they are of minimal proportions. It would be nice to know a bit more about the hand throttle mechanism and how it works, but as long as all of the parts are present, it’s probably a simple arrangement. There are those who take interest in restoring unusual creations like this Eshelman CSC, and returning them back to their original condition – unfortunately, the noted missing body components could make that undertaking a challenge. Nevertheless, it would be great to see this tiny sports car saved, it’s a real throwback to a long-gone era, wouldn’t you agree?
Just needs an LS swap…
This car was the automotive equivalent of sea monkeys and X-ray glasses. Looks great in the small back-pages advertisements, ridiculously disappointing on arrival.
Not sure who this car(?) was marketed for, kids that had the hottest stick, or adults that weren’t quite so lucky. The CSC was obviously a kids toy, but you could get street legal ones. Their claim to fame, like most micro cars of the time, was it’s 70 mpg, 25 mph claims and $395 price tag, made it one of the cheapest rides you could buy. I wonder why they went with driving both rear wheels without some kind of differential? Trouble was, with all these micro cars, Americans fresh out of Dubja, Dubja 2, der, wanted big cruisers with Niagara Falls of gas down the intake, not lawn mower powered “puddle jumpers”, like the old man called anything smaller than a Lincoln. Why anyone would pay more than $50 bucks for this, is beyond me, and these days, it doesn’t take much.
The King Midget had quite a run as did the Crosley. There were always those who had a hankering for ultimate economy. Remember the Mobil Economy Runs? They were big in the Fifties and into the Sixties.
Finally one I can afford:-)
If you google “Eshelman Company”, and then hit “images”, you will see what this thing looked like when new.
As you suggested I looked at the cars – pretty cool, especially like the rocket emblem on the side.
Looks well built – front engine rear drive, “chain sprockets set inboard of both rear wheels – positraction!” Fabricate some body parts, new tires, engine fix, etc. and go.
Competitor to the King Midget? I imagine the “hand throttle” would be similar to that found in smaller boats. Can’t imagine a full-sized adult even being comfortable in one of these.
Sooo…it’s a riding lawn mower…without the mower.
Sold.
Facebook group for Eshelman: http://www.facebook.com/EshelmanCars
Also check Wikipedia.
Here’s Dick Nixon pretending to fuel up a ’54 Eshelman. https://fb.watch/akmpxihq8K/ (Eshelmans fueled in the engine compartment.)
This one looks like a ’55.
Bought a 1956 Eshelman Adult Car here on Barn Finds about 8 years ago.
Turned out to be a great restoration project, The cars have a big following, a web site, and a forum. Everyone has been very helpful with information, and spare parts . Bonus is my little car rides to car shows in the back of my Ford .Van . The AACA Museum has an Eshelman in their displays,and I have seen a few Eshelmans at car shows. The car is recognized by the Antique Auto Club of America.
Young children really do love these little cars!
Met a lot of great people in the Eshelman club. Wes
Upon seeing your Barnfinds ad. I immediately contacted Bob and bought the car. I had one as a kid and well,,, now I have more money then sense. lol
I collect micro cars and Crosleys among old Corvettes and Camaros. This will be a nice little project for the 7 and 9 year old boys to restomod and rip around on. She’s all crated but just can’t find a reasonable shipper back to Nebraska. I guess they aren’t bought with the final price tag in mind, just the joy of watching them tinker.
Have a great day!
P.J.
P.J.
Thanks for the update and congratulations. Please let us know how your progress with it advances.
Thx,
JO
Enjoy. Please post pictures when it’s restored.
If you need a transport the Eshelman I use CCC Transport,drivers name is John, phone 920-450-5027.or ionot777@gmail.com He might be in your area,or on the west coast you never know. John is honest,and will quote you a cost to ship.He has moved several motorbikes for me, tell him Wes Holliday refered you. Good luck with your little car !