Automobile Advertising Company stock certificate circa 1899 (Maine)

Desirable automotive collectible.  Interesting and unique vignette of a conceptual tiller-steered car with a revolving sign mounted above the passenger cabin. Dated 1___. Circa 1899 from company records.

The company (formerly, the Lightning Change Advertising Company) was incorporated in Maine in 1899 with offices in Boston Mass. Charles Bradbury was president and Silas Ayer was the secretary-treasurer. The company was formed to manufacture electric motor carriages for advertising purposes. The construction of the vehicles was to be subcontracted with licensing agreements. The company believed their patents were strong and would limit competition.

While no vehicles were built, the company estimated they could circulate several vehicles around Boston for fees of $40 per day. No doubt, roadside billboards were an easier way of advertising.  The company was dissolved by 1912.

This piece is not listed in the definitive reference guide, "American Automotive Stock Certificates" by Larry Falater.