Thursday 7th September 1899

Over a dozen motorcars, decorated with hydrangeas, streamers, lights, and Japanese lanterns, lined up to take part in America’s first parade of motor vehicles. A throng of spectators showed up in Newport, Rhode Island, to witness the event, arriving in cabs, private carriages, bicycles, and even by foot to witness the spectacle, attracted by the novelty and rumours surrounding the event. The nature of the car decorations had been shrouded in mystery prior to the parade, for each participant had wished to surprise and outdo the others.