Life, 1910-10-20 · page 8 of 44
Life — October 20, 1910 — page 8: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is a commercial advertisement for Baker Electric vehicles, not political satire. The image shows a well-dressed woman in elegant Edwardian attire entering or exiting an electric automobile, positioned outside what appears to be a upscale residence. The ad emphasizes "social prestige" and "refined usage by women," marketing the Baker Electric as a status symbol suitable for ladies of means. The vehicle's "noiseless shaft drive and luxurious ease" are highlighted as ideal for social occasions. This reflects early 1900s attitudes where electric cars were marketed as suitable for women—quieter and easier to operate than gasoline vehicles. The ad targets affluent female consumers, positioning the Baker as both a practical and socially prestigious purchase. The 1911 models mentioned were being delivered at that time.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
The Social Prestige of the Baker Electric is the result of years of refined usage by women who want and will pay for the best. Its graceful design gives the car a marked distinction. Its noiseless shaft drive and lux- urious ease of riding fit it pre-eminently for social uses. Equipped with either lead or Edison batteries —(50 cells A4 or 40 cells A6)—whichever purchaser may prefer. 1911 Models now being deliv- ered. See them in salesroom of our dealers in your city, or write for illustrated catalogue The Baker Motor Vehicle Company 33 West 80th Street Cleveland, Ohio Ccomicbooks.com