Custer Specialty Company was established in Dayton, Ohio, during the early 20th century and operated primarily from the 1920s to the 1960s. The company, founded by Luzern Custer, specialized in the production of miniature electric vehicles designed for both children and adults, often used for promotional purposes and in circus performances.
One of the notable models produced by Custer was the Cootie, a child's electric car that retailed for $95 in the early 1920s. This model gained some fame when it was used on stage by British comedian Lupine Lane and was also licensed for road use. In addition to the Cootie, Custer manufactured several other products, including the Cabbie, a miniature railway locomotive, and the Chair, a three-wheeled invalid car. The company also produced the Carrier, a factory truck, and the Coupif, an aesthetically appealing vehicle equipped with electric lighting, which could reach a maximum speed of 8 mph (13 km/h).
Following World War II, Custer shifted its focus to producing invalid cars and introduced a buckboard model that could be powered by either petrol or electricity. The company's innovative designs contributed to the niche market of small electric vehicles during its operational years.
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