The introduction of the automobile transformed life in 20th-century America, rendering horse-drawn vehicles obsolete and gradually replacing trolleys, railroads and water transportation for most purposes. Connecticut enjoyed a brief but serious flirtation with electric automobiles; prior to 1912, Hartford was a major center for the manufacture of electric cars and trucks.

The use of horses for a wide variety of purposes, including trash collection and fire fighting, continued well into the 20th century.
Ref. # 1995.36.851

This fleet of electric ice cream trucks is shown in front an electric charging station. From its incorporation in 1906, the New Haven Dairy maintained a factory and office in Hartford as well as in New Haven.
Ref. # 1995.36.1255

Park Street near intersection with Greenwich. A fleet of delivery trucks is parked outside the Royal Baking Company in the Parkville section of Hartford.
Ref. # 1995.36.809

The dome of the Colt Firearms Company is faintly visible in the background. This is probably an example of Dudley's news photography.
Ref. # 1995.36.1304