David Bruce-Brown

This is one of the most popular images of David Loney Bruce-Brown, one of the most interesting personalities of early auto racing. Versatile, Bruce-Brown was widely recognized by his peers as among the very best of their profession. He won the American Grand Prize twice (1910 & 1911) as well as a host of hill climbs. Bruce-Brown led most of the first half of the 1911 Indianapolis 500, but tire failure and ignition trouble thwarted his drive for victory. He did salvage third. Bruce-Brown dominated the first day of a two-day 1912 French Grand Prix, but was disqualified in a controversial decision for re-fueling his car away from the pit area. Bruce-Brown was killed on a Milwaukee road course while practicing for the American Grand Prize in October 1912.
 
If you would like to know more about David Bruce-Brown, read my feature story about him in the 2009 Indianapolis 500 Program.
 
This photo appeared in the May 31, 1911 edition of the Indianapolis Star.