Pebble Beach: A Matter of Style: Racing Through the Pines 1950-1956; Concours d'Elegance 1950-1979
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Author Description
Since 1950, Pebble Beach, California has been the setting for what has become the most unique and prestigious automotive Concours de Elegance in the world. It was also the setting thirty years ago for a kind of pure auto racing that has simply disappeared, and will never return again. This is the story of both these events, supported by more than 500 photographs and 32 pages of magnificent color. The racing took place from 1950 until 1956, when increasing speeds brought tragedy. It was a time when tens of thousands lined the public roads in the Del Monte forest to watch amateurs joust with one another in sports cars and home-built specials… for the fun of it. It was the beginning of Phil Hill's long climb to a world driving championship, the first fame for Carroll Shelby, the start of California's love affair with Porsche.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This book chronicles the dual legacy of Pebble Beach, California, as a premier venue for both elegant automotive displays and thrilling, albeit dangerous, road racing. The narrative explores the Concours d'Elegance from 1950 to 1979, highlighting its rise to global prestige, while also recounting the intense sports car racing that occurred on public roads from 1950 to 1956. This era of racing, characterized by amateur competition and burgeoning motorsport stars, ultimately ended due to increasing speeds and tragic accidents, leaving behind a unique chapter in automotive history.
THE SCOPE MAP
- Detailed history of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance from 1950 to 1979.
- In-depth account of the Pebble Beach road racing events held between 1950 and 1956.
- Profiles of notable figures such as Phil Hill and Carroll Shelby during their early careers.
- Exploration of the cultural significance of California's early enthusiasm for Porsche.
- Coverage of the types of vehicles featured, including sports cars and custom-built specials.
- Discussion of the risks and tragedies associated with the high-speed racing era.
- Extensive photographic documentation with over 500 images.
- Inclusion of 32 pages of color photography.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
The book is presented as a comprehensive historical account of two distinct yet intertwined aspects of Pebble Beach's automotive heritage: the prestigious Concours d'Elegance and the now-defunct road racing events. It aims to capture the spirit of a bygone era of motorsport, supported by extensive visual material. The narrative emphasizes the unique atmosphere of the races and the significant figures who emerged from this period, offering a detailed look at both the glamour and the danger inherent in the automotive world.
Page Count:
312
Publication Date:
1980-01-01
Publisher:
Newport Press
ISBN-10:
0930880048
ISBN-13:
9780930880040
Non-Fiction
History
Motorsport
Automotive History
Sports Cars
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