Interesting Tidbits

I just uploaded the latest in my series of articles about the first Indianapolis 500, this one from the Indianapolis News of May 25, 1911. This collection is so comprehensive it is like reading the daily newspaper on any month of May as you keep up with daily activities of the track. Even Indianapolis 500 fans that are familiar with most of the facts surrounding the first 500 in 1911 will find new things to learn. These are details that have been deleted from articles and history books because of space constraints.  For instance, the day before time trials was called "tuning day" and "Wild" Bob Burman's record run with the Blitzen Benz occurred the day before the race - not the morning of, as originally planned - and proceeds were donated to a hospital. Mayor Shanks called for the city council to approve the use of government buildings because the hotel capacity of Indianapolis had been exhausted with influx of out-of-town guests. The details are what bring out the color you just won't find in most history books. Not enough, anyway...