Private company

Keystone Motor Company of Philadelphia

Defunct American motor vehicle manufacturer

The Keystone Motor Company of Philadelphia was the manufacturer of a veteran era automobile in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1900.2 Wikipedia text CC BY-SA 4.0

Last updated Oct 21, 2026.

Overview

1900Founded1
  • HeadquartersPhiladelphia1
MHV Searchmont Wagonette 1901 02
Photo: Unknown author Unknown author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons4

The Keystone Motor Company of Philadelphia was the manufacturer of a veteran era automobile in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1900.2

The story

Keystone manufactured a water-cooled, single-cylinder engine that delivered 5 bhp (3.7 kW). This engine was made available to other manufacturers. Three models, all priced at US$750, with a wheelbase of 52 in.and tiller steering were offered.

The Autocycle was a runabout for two passengers. The engine was standing free behind the seat without protection by a hood. The vehicle had wire wheels, those in front being slightly larger.

The Wagonette was also a runabout but looked more modern and resembled the Oldsmobile Curved Dash. The front panel was curved outward and fenders with step plate were fitted. The engine was concealed in a compartment under the seat, a canopy top was an option.

A third model was the Parcel Delivery that accommodated the driver only.

In the summer of 1900, Keystone reported that 75 engines, five Autocycles and four Wagonettes were built and sold in its first month.

Philadelphia businessmen (among them Theodore C. Search, head of the Stetson Hat Company) purchased Keystone five months after the car was introduced. This became the Searchmont Motor Company. Keystone chief engineer Edward B. Gallaher became plant manager for the Searchmont.

From Wikipedia’s article on Keystone Motor Company of Philadelphia, shared under CC BY-SA 4.0.3

Timeline

  1. 1900Dissolved Dissolved1
  2. 1900Founded Founded1