White automobiles were renowned for their exceptional quality and ranked among the finest-performing steam cars of their era. This 1909 White Model O is a prime example, believed to have remained with its original owner through WWII. It was subsequently acquired by noted steam car enthusiast Richard Hempel of Emmett, Idaho, who retained it for just a year before it passed through a small number of owners. Eventually, it was acquired by famed casino magnate and automotive collector William F. Harrah of Reno, Nevada. Once part of his famed collection, the Model O was restored by his in-house restoration team, known for their meticulous, no-expense-spared work. It remained in Harrah’s collection until 1975.

This example later joined the Crawford Auto and Aviation Museum of Cleveland, Ohio – a fitting home, given the marque’s origins. It remained with the Crawford Museum until 1990, when they decided to part with a portion of their collection. Its next caretaker was former racing driver Michel Rothschild, who competed against the best at venues such as Le Mans and Sebring during the 1950s and 1960s. Following his racing career, Rothschild became a passionate collector of Brass Era automobiles, making this White Model O a natural choice for his collection. The car remained with Rothschild until 1998, when it was acquired by Stan Lucas. This 1909 White Model O Touring offers an exceptional opportunity to acquire a significant steam-powered automobile that boasts renowned provenance and eligibility for premier vintage tours celebrating the early days of motoring.