In March 1907, the Hatfield Motor Company announced that: “it would relocate to Miamisburg at 27 North Main.”

The Hatfield high wheeler has multiple speeds forward and one reverse, obtained by moving the friction wheel nearer or farther from the center of the flywheel. In this way, nearly all the power is delivered to the rear wheels. The friction drive flywheel will never break or wear out. There is no complicated machinery, no clutch, no gears, no radiator, no water pump, and no pneumatic tires.

The vehicle was light at 800 pounds, driven by a 12 horsepower double opposed, air cooled 4-cycle gas engine situated crosswise under the seat. A patented, simple, efficient friction transmission drive transferred power to a jack shaft, which powered the rear wheels by side chains. Spark and throttle levers are placed convenient to the hand and on the steering shaft. Control is exceedingly accurate and allows various speeds without shifting the friction wheel. The Hatfield can be started forward instantly, or just a few inches at a time, while the hand remains on the steering wheel.

The fuel tank holds 8 gallons, and the supply may be turned on and off from the seat. Cranking is made easier by compression relief cocks. A foot pedal controls the powerful parking brake and will hold the car in place on the steepest grade. The carriage type springs are long and flexible, and recoil is prevented. A shock absorber allows for a smoother ride. All four wheels have roller bearings.

The body is given a superb finish with 16 coats of paint and varnish, applied and rubbed by hand. Horsehair and steel springs are used in upholstering the seat.

Charles Hatfield felt that he had a low-priced automobile that would appeal to buyers. Unfortunately, by 1907, “high wheelers” were already outdated, and people wanted “real cars” with balloon tires and comfortable seating. Hatfield advertised extensively but sold few cars and that spelled failure. Despite almost superhuman efforts, the Hatfield company was short of cash by January of 1908. Soon Hatfield was bankrupt and left town in March, just ahead of angry creditors.

Charles Hatfield landed in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where J.L. Clark agreed to back him in making the Clark-Hatfield automobile, which they announced in October 1908. Sadly, no one wanted a Clark-Hatfield vehicle either.

On loan from the collection of Larry and Maria Suttman of Kettering