Following 60 years of carriage manufacture, the H.H. Babcock Company of Watertown, New York established its automobile department in April 1908. Initial models were high wheelers and rigorously tested in the snow and ice of upstate New York. Interestingly, Babcock reverted back to coachbuilding in December 1913 and enjoyed success with its production of ambulance bodies during WWI.

Acquired by Mark Smith from the Petersen Automotive Museum Vault Collection in 2020, this exceptionally original 1912 Model H Touring remains in wonderful, well-preserved condition. According to Mr. Smith’s records on file, the Babcock was in long-term storage in a Boston garage prior to acquisition by Connecticut-based collector Ralph De Angeles. It was subsequently sold to noted East Coast collector Joel Finn before being relocated to the West Coast. Quite rare when new and far more so today, this Babcock Model H Touring provides an exceptional opportunity for the next owner to continue its remarkable preservation.

*Please note that this Lot, like all vehicles in this Auction, has been in long-term static storage and may not be currently operational. It will require mechanical attention prior to any road use.

Gooding & Company presents and conducts the Estate of Mark Smith Auction under the authority of John J. Rendemonti, Executor of the Estate of Mark J. Smith, duly appointed by the Circuit Court of the State of New Hampshire, Probate Division, Case Number 312-2022-ET-00072. The Estate has compiled available title and/or registration paperwork for the Vehicles offered in the Auction and will provide such paperwork to the Buyer if it is available. However, as set forth more fully in the Conditions of Sale, neither the Estate nor Gooding makes any representation or warranty with respect to any existing certificate of title or registration with regard to any Lot in the Auction. Any Lot may be sold on a Bill of Sale. By participating in this Auction, all bidders and buyers recognize that Estate and Gooding have expressly disclaimed all such warranties concerning the availability or sufficiency of any title or registration documentation.