Cunningham: The Passion and the Legacy
By Richard Harman
This comprehensive chronicle of the automotive adventures of Briggs Swift Cunningham is, as one might suspect, a lengthy story that tells the tale of not only his racing adventures, but also his eponymous production of both race and road cars.
The author’s seven years of dedication to this project show on every page as he captures the essence of a man who profoundly influenced many aspects of American life, and whose advocacy of sports car racing was crucial to its gaining a sturdy foothold in the USA.
Beginning with childhood, Harman traces Cunningham’s entire life, illuminating the special qualities that set his subject apart from nearly everyone else. Like many history books, this one relies on an extensive selection of photography to serve its narrative, and these images—many previously unseen—do their job admirably.
Beyond the basic story of Cunningham the competitor, are also told the stories of Cunningham Cars, his museum and of many other cars for which he played a role either as creator or simply by ownership. If you have any interest at all in American sports car racing, this book is essential.
Available for US$350/£225 from enthusiast bookstores, or direct from publisher Dalton Watson Fine Books at www.daltonwatson.com
