George N. Pierce, a builder of bicycles and birdcages ventured out to making automobiles in 1901. He started out with his "Pierce Motorette" which was powered by a 2 3/4-horsepower, single-cylinder De Dion gasoline engine.

By 1904 his car had 28 horsepower and within a few short years he progressed to producing prestigious cars under the name Pierce-Arrow. The 1933 "Silver Arrow" shown is a one-of-five car that featured a V-12 engine displacing 462 cubic inches and capable of reaching 117 mph.

The highly styled body design was full width, incorporated a tapered-tail fastback, the headlights blended into the front fenders, along with a streamlined sharply raked grille. Spare wheels were tucked inside concealed compartments between the front axle and cowl. This car was truly "art on wheels!"