Fred Marriott, American racing driver (b. 1872)
Fred Marriott, an American race car driver born on December 31, 1872, in Needham, Massachusetts, left an indelible mark on automotive history. His life, which spanned until April 28, 1956, was highlighted by a daring quest for speed, culminating in a world-beating achievement that captivated the early 20th century.

Setting the Land Speed Record in 1906

It was in 1906, amidst the burgeoning era of automotive innovation and speed trials, that Fred Marriott etched his name into the record books. At the famed Daytona Beach Road Course in Florida, a stretch of hard-packed sand that served as an ideal proving ground for automotive prowess, Marriott piloted the revolutionary Stanley Land Speed Record Car to an astonishing speed of 127.659 mph (205.5 km/h). This remarkable feat not only pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible at the time but also firmly established the supremacy of steam power in the realm of high-speed vehicles. The car itself, often referred to as a "Stanley Steamer," was a testament to the ingenious engineering of the Stanley Motor Carriage Company, which was known for its innovative, quiet, and powerful steam-powered automobiles.

The successful record attempt was not just a personal triumph for Marriott but also a significant achievement for his employer. The speed record garnered the Stanley Motor Carriage Company the prestigious Dewar Trophy, an award recognizing outstanding British technical achievement in the automotive field. This international recognition underscored the cutting-edge nature of the Stanley vehicle and the skill of its driver.

An intriguing detail from this historic event reveals the intense risks involved in early land speed attempts. A dedicated crew of four accompanied the Stanley car to Daytona. Among them, Fred Marriott was chosen as the driver for a rather poignant reason: he was the only bachelor. This decision, though seemingly practical, highlighted the grave dangers associated with pushing these early machines to their absolute limits, suggesting that a single man might have fewer dependents to grieve should the worst occur. It speaks volumes about the courage required to participate in such endeavors during an era when safety features were virtually nonexistent.

The Perilous Pursuit and Its Aftermath in 1907

Driven by the relentless pursuit of speed and the desire to break their own incredible record, the Stanley team returned to Daytona in 1907 with an improved version of their formidable steam car. Fred Marriott was once again at the controls, aiming to surpass his previous achievement. However, this attempt would prove to be far more dramatic and ultimately career-ending for Marriott.

Traveling at an estimated speed of 140-150 mph—a truly breathtaking pace for the era—the car encountered an unexpected rut in the track. The impact was catastrophic; the vehicle was launched into the air, momentarily airborne, before disintegrating upon impact with the ground, effectively breaking in half. Fred Marriott miraculously survived the harrowing crash but sustained significant injuries. The terrifying experience and the severity of the accident led him to a profound decision: after recovering from his injuries, he never again attempted to break the land speed record. The incident served as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers and the fine line between glory and disaster in the pursuit of ultimate speed.

A Century of Endurance: The Legacy of Marriott's Record

Despite the dramatic end to his record-breaking aspirations, Fred Marriott's 1906 steam land speed record stood as a monumental achievement for an astonishing period. For more than a century, his mark of 127.659 mph remained unbroken, becoming the longest-standing land speed record in automotive history. This incredible longevity underscored the advanced engineering of the Stanley Steamer and Marriott's exceptional driving skill.

It was not until August 2009 that this venerable record was finally surpassed. Over 103 years after Marriott's triumph, a new chapter in steam-powered speed was written. Charles Burnett III, driving for the British "Inspiration" team, achieved an average speed of 139.843 mph (225.06 km/h). This new record was set not on the sandy shores of Daytona, but at the modern and meticulously prepared Edwards Air Force Base in California, a location synonymous with high-speed testing and aerospace innovation. The breaking of Marriott's record by Burnett III closed a remarkable chapter in automotive history, recognizing the pioneering spirit of Fred Marriott while celebrating the relentless march of technological progress.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fred Marriott and His Record

Who was Fred Marriott?

Fred Marriott (1872-1956) was an American race car driver best known for setting the world land speed record in 1906.

What record did Fred Marriott set in 1906?

In 1906, Fred Marriott set the world land speed record at 127.659 mph (205.5 km/h) at the Daytona Beach Road Course.

What car did Marriott drive to set the record?

He drove the Stanley Land Speed Record Car, a steam-powered vehicle often referred to as a "Stanley Steamer."

Why was Marriott chosen as the driver for the 1906 record attempt?

He was selected because he was the only bachelor among the crew, a decision reflecting the extreme dangers and high risks associated with early land speed record attempts.

What happened during Marriott's 1907 record attempt?

In 1907, an improved version of the Stanley car, driven by Marriott, hit a rut at an estimated 140-150 mph. The car broke in half, and Marriott was severely injured.

Did Fred Marriott attempt to break the record again after his crash?

No, after recovering from his injuries sustained in the 1907 crash, Fred Marriott did not make another attempt to break the land speed record.

How long did Fred Marriott's steam land speed record stand?

His record stood for over 100 years, making it the longest-standing land speed record in history.

When and by whom was Marriott's record finally broken?

Marriott's record was finally broken in August 2009 by Charles Burnett III of the British "Inspiration" team, who achieved an average speed of 139.843 mph (225.06 km/h).

Where was the record broken in 2009?

The new steam land speed record was set at Edwards Air Force Base in California.