1903 Imperial Tonneau

Engine: Horizontal inline, two-cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement: Unknown
Bore and Stroke: Unknown
Power: 6 kW (8 hp)
Transmission: 2-forward, 1-reverse, manual
Weight: 544 kg (1,199.3 lb)
Capacity: 4 passengers
Original Cost: C $800

This 1903 Imperial Tonneau was built by Rodgers & Company of Columbus, Ohio, USA, who operated under the name Imperial. When production commenced in 1903, four models were announced, but only three were produced until 1904. Production ceased in 1905. This car has several features that were unusual for a front-engine vehicle from its time period, including the use of copper disc cooling fins, shaft-driven rear wheels, sliding gear transmission, and a hinged steering column - an early use of a tilt wheel. This car is historically representative of the first type of tonneau with a rear entry door between the two seats.

Very little is known about Rodgers & Company, presumably because it was in operation for only a year, from 1903 to 1904. It may have initially been a carriage manufacturer, like many automobile producers of the early 1900s. Automobiles were built under the name "Imperial"; some sources say that the names "Columbus" and "Rodgers" may have also been used.

Chronology:
1903 - This Imperial tonneau is made in Columbus, Ohio, USA
1977 - Stan Reynolds acquires this Imperial tonneau from its previous owner.
1985 - This Imperial tonneau is added to the Reynolds-Alberta Museum Collection.