Automobile Road Guide In and Out of Chicago and Vicinity

Before there was Google Maps, there was F.W. Brenckle.

This convenient and informative road guide to the area around Chicago was copywritten in 1909 by F.W. Brenckle and published locally by the Atlas Printing Company. An introduction outlining state motor laws is followed by an index listing 100 different curated routes extending to Indianapolis, Lake Geneva, Iowa City, Green Bay, Starved Rock, and many other Midwestern destinations. These are provided in the form of turn-by-turn directions and accompanying mileage, accompanied by a very rudimentary sketched map. The maps sometimes offer information on the road surface (paved, dirt, etc.), but more often than not, simply present an uninterrupted line connecting each point.

Numerous black and white photographs are interspersed, noting prominent landmarks and local attractions. Dozens of advertisements for mechanics, auto parts manufacturers, insurance firms, and other related businesses are scattered throughout the volume – many on bright orange paper likely inserted shortly before printing.

The rare volume is a fascinating relic from the early days of automobile tourism; when persistent mechanical issues, poor roads, and a lack of traveler amenities made motorists more akin to trailblazers than pleasure-seekers. As of March 2025, WorldCat lists only one example of the 1909 edition, at the Chicago History Museum (possessor of the only 1913 edition, as well). OCLC# 270741559.