Buick Roadmaster

In The Hesperus Prophecy, Director Harold Bowen drives a Buick Roadmaster.

In the 1930s, Buick Roadmasters were considered very good cars, offering a luxurious ride with a powerful engine and stylish design. The Roadmaster shared a lot of similarities with Cadillacs, both built by General Motors, with the Roadmaster being significantly more affordable.

The Roadmaster’s powerful inline 8-cylinder engine provided smooth power and good acceleration, which comes in handy when the director is driving from the US Naval Research Labs to the Navy and Munitions Buildings. Tackling the muddy, swampy roads along the Potomac River is challenging, but the Roadmaster proves more than capable.

In the 1930s, cars lasted about 7 years. Harold Bowen is driving a more recent model, having been recently promoted to Director of the US Naval Research Labs, he likely rewarded himself by splurging on a new automobile. Whether Director Bowen’s Roadmaster is a 1936, 37, or 38 model, James finds the seats far more comfortable than the hard seats of District buses.

1938 Buick Roadmaster

1937 Buick Roadmaster

1936 Buick Roadmaster