Today's photo from Martin Schweig's archives feature a 1927 Gardner Model 90 Roadster parked on the upper Muny Opera lot, filled with what Martin assumes are actresses involved in a Muny Opera production.
To get more information about the automobile, Martin sent a copy of the photo to Al Mercer, President of the AACA (Antique Automobile Club of America). After some research Al reported that Gardners were semi-luxury automobiles built in St. Louis from 1919 to 1932. Mercer continued, "The photo was probably a publicity photo for Gardner and the Muny."
Other automobiles manufactured in St. Louis (approximately 10) in the early part of the 20th century were the Moon, Diana, Ruxton, and the Dorris, which was manufactured in the building now known as the Dorris Lofts at Laclede and Sarah.
The photographs above and below were also taken by Martin's father on the Muny grounds during the same time period.
Some of the women look as if posing with the stuffed toys is the last thing they want to do, don't they?
Thanks again Martin for sharing these photos. Next up from the archives: Bridal photographs.
Thank you for the picture of the Gardner roadster. It is a 1927 model 80 and a picture taken at the same time included Richard Bonelli of the Chicago Civic Opera and girls from the ballet. That picture was in the May 26, 1927 issue of Motor Age.
See http://www.gardnermotorcars.com then click 1927.