Two Thousand Miles on an Automobile Being a Desultory Narrative of a Trip Through New England, New York, Canada, and the West, By "Chauffeur"   By: Arthur Jerome Eddy (1859-1920)

Two Thousand Miles on an Automobile is a captivating and detailed account of a road trip through various regions of the United States and Canada, written by Arthur Jerome Eddy under the pseudonym "Chauffeur." The book offers readers a unique perspective of the early 20th-century travel experience, as the author embarks on a journey covering landscapes, cities, and people from New England to the West.

Eddy's descriptive writing style effortlessly transports the reader to each location, allowing them to envision the changing scenery and experience the diverse culture and history of the regions visited. The author's keen observations and attention to detail bring the narrative to life, making it an engaging and immersive read.

One of the book's notable strengths lies in Eddy's ability to vividly depict the people he encounters along the way. From farmers to city dwellers, wealthy individuals to everyday working-class folks, the author skillfully captures their essence, quirks, and diverse way of life. Moreover, Eddy provides invaluable insights into the social fabric of early 20th-century America, making the book not only a travelogue but also a social commentary of its time.

What sets Two Thousand Miles on an Automobile apart is its historical significance. As one of the earliest accounts of an extensive automobile journey, the book offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by early motorists. From navigating rough and unreliable roads to grappling with breakdowns and repairs, Eddy's experiences shed light on the evolution of transportation and the advent of automobile culture in America.

Throughout the narrative, Eddy also reflects on the impact of industrialization and modernization on the landscapes and communities he encounters. This introspection provides a thought-provoking perspective on the potential consequences of progress and development in the early 20th century, making the book relevant even today.

While the narrative flows smoothly, there are instances where the author delves into detailed descriptions of specific locations, potentially overwhelming readers who might prefer a more concise account. However, these sections also exhibit Eddy's passion for storytelling, making them valuable for history enthusiasts.

Two Thousand Miles on an Automobile is not only an enjoyable travelogue but also a testament to the spirit of adventure and curiosity that drives exploration. Whether one is interested in history, travel, or the early days of automotive culture, this book offers a rich and rewarding reading experience. Eddy's writing style, coupled with his unique perspective, provides a window into a bygone era and makes for an enlightening literary journey.

First Page:

To disarm criticism at the outset, the writer acknowledges a thousand imperfections in this discursive story. In all truth, it is a most garrulous and incoherent narrative. Like the automobile, part of the time the narrative moves, part of the time it does not; now it is in the road pursuing a straight course; then again it is in the ditch, or far afield, quite beyond control and out of reason... Continue reading book >>