Also on view: Rauch & Lang Electric Automobile

The electrically powered automobile, built in 1919 by Rauch and Lang Carriage Company of Cleveland, Ohio, was donated to the museum by Jeanette Watson in 2001. Volunteers from History San Jose’s Trolley Barn spent over 2,000 hours retoring the vehicle to its original glory. Only a handful of Rauch and Lang electric coaches exist today. The Campbell Historical Museum is excited and honored to display such a rare vehicle.
The Rauch and Lang electric coach was originally designed and marketed to upper class ladies, as it was considered to be safer and cleaner then the gas-powered vehicle, which required a crank start. Starting a gas-powered vehicle could be dangerous if the car recoiled, and there was the distressing possibility of soiling gloves and dresses with engine grease. In addition, the interior created the illusion of a traveling living room, complete with richly upholstered seats that swiveled, silk shades, and a vase for freshly cut flowers.