Records Fall in Bitter Cold

This is a nice collection of articles that summarizes the first day of the December 1909 speed trials at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and sets up the second day. Lewis Strang in his Fiat (called "Giant") was the big star, busting Barney Oldfield's mile record set in August. National Motor Vehicle Company driver Johnny Aitken turned in a strong performance for stock cars. The bitter cold deterred most of the drivers from returning the following day, with the exception of Walter Christie (his own "freak" front wheel drive racer) and Lewis Strang.
 
A better analysis with more original, in-period Indianapolis newspaper articles can be found elsewhere on First Super Speedway. Check out the full collection of all articles on this important event.