Automobiles
In the mid-to-late 19th century, inventors began tinkering with the idea of motorized transportation. During the early 20th century, the automobile began sweeping the nation and had one of the most significant impacts on the American lifestyle and the evolution of the built environment. The automobile itself evolved from decade to decade, keeping up with modern technology and consumer demands. Thus, cars can be an excellent tool in dating an historic image. However, it is important to keep in mind that automobiles were expensive, and the average American held on to his or her car for several years, even as new models were hitting the market.
Click on the thumbnail below that closely resembles the car in your historic image.
| 1890s | 1900s | 1910s |
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| 1920s | 1930s | 1940s |
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| 1950s | 1960s | 1970s |
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Also read about license plate styles in Vermont.
