Having introduced its first V-8 model in 1915, Cadillac went on to refine the design over the next several years. By 1917 the wheelbase had subtly grown to 125 inches and the styling was lightly modernized, including crowned fenders and enameled headlights. One of several new and exciting additions to the roster of available body styles was the four-passenger Victoria, a design reworked from prior years and now featuring large rear quarter windows for better vision. The windows in the doors opened with hand cranks rather than in the “railroad” style with hand straps, something of a modern touch for the era, while the center pillars could be removed for an airy “hardtop” feel. Unsurprisingly, this was a costly automobile, originally priced at $2,550, but few could argue with its charms.

The factory build record, a copy of which is included in the history file, notes that this particular Victoria was originally delivered to a Mrs. Hyslop of Toronto, whose husband was one of the partners in Hyslop Bros., the first Cadillac and Oldsmobile dealership in Ontario. The interior is an unusual arrangement with a large driver’s seat and a capacious two-passenger rear seat (with built-in icebox!), as well as a folding front passenger jump seat intended for a maid or footman—all upholstered in period-correct Bedford cord. Additionally, a rumble seat is tucked into the rear deck and thus this is one of the few two-door cars that can legitimately carry six adult passengers. Accessories include an adjustable steering wheel, as well as a speedometer, fuel-pressure gauge, ammeter, and Moto-Meter.

Finished in rich blue and black with natural wood artillery wheels, the Cadillac has been part of the Janet Cussler Car Collection since the fall of 2018. It has much character and its own type of regal beauty. It would be a wonderful addition to any stable of Cadillacs or the ideal acquisition for an Ontario enthusiast focused on the automotive history of the province.