This 1939 Kurtis-Kraft Midget Racer is a handcrafted artifact from the formative years of Frank Kurtis’s legendary career, built for Texas racer Gene Fredericks and powered by an early dual overhead cam engine developed by Barnes & Hubbard Machine Co.

According to correspondence included in the history file, this example was constructed in 1939, shortly after Kurtis completed a run of six customer midgets. Built before WWII, the car predates the formal production runs that would later cement Kurtis’ reputation, making it one of the earliest known Kurtis-bodied midget racers. At the time of construction, Barnes & Hubbard was developing an innovative dual overhead cam engine, which was fitted to this car and remains in place today.

This Midget Racer was originally commissioned by team owner Gene Fredericks, one of the Southwest’s most active and competitive dirt track racers. Fredericks campaigned the car extensively throughout the 1940s and famously drove it to victory in the grueling 500-lap General Wainwright Classic in Tulsa in 1950. Offered today with an extensive history file, this Kurtis-Kraft Midget Racer stands as an authentic and remarkably preserved link to the golden age of American midget racing. Built by one of the most influential names in American race car design and raced by one of Texas’ most decorated oval track drivers, this car presents a rare opportunity to acquire a cornerstone of oval track racing history.

*Please note that this vehicle is sold on a Bill of Sale