Today I received Bill Spear’s new book, WARBABY: The True Story of the Original Jeep. In it Bill explores the history of the first jeep, the Bantam BRC in detail. The book looks beautiful, full of text and photographs. I can’t wait to dive into it; and at 400 pages, there’s plenty to explore!
The first edition printing will be limited to 1,000 copies. The price is $60, but to me, having leafed through it today, this effort appears well worth the cost. Learn more over at Bill’s website: http://warbaby.wmspear.com
While you wait for the book, check out this one hour plus presentation by Bill Spears:
Nice! Just ordered my copy! Can’t wait to check it out.. thanks for posting this. Happy Holidays!
I didn’t hesitate to order a copy. I’m looking forward to learning more details and politics of the development of the light reconnaissance car that has become the useful vehicle we call a Jeep. And, it’s past time I learn more about the Bantam Car Company. I’ve only seen one Bantam in person. I’m sure it will have interesting information because the author is a Bantam fan.
**Steve E.**
Not having seen this book, I am wondering about the roll or BRCs in the war. I know there was a small number built but assumed they were relegated to state side or reserve-type duty. But recently I saw a video clip with the Allies advancing through Germany, and Shermans passing a BRC in some destroyed village.
There were only about 2600 ordered, so their importance is relegated to launching the jeep more than anything else. This site http://historywithheart.com/BRC75/index.html argues that they were the first jeeps to see military combat in Africa (with the British). As I understand it, some also went to Russia and saw early combat there.
Now that the two busy holidays are over, I received my copy today. It’s a nice thick book packed with photos throughout. There are more photos of the foremost Bantam Jeep than I’ve seen previously. I’m not disappointed, and I’m very glad I bought it.
**Steve E.**
Steve,
I felt the same way. I’ve read part way through it. He’s assembled and, more importantly, organized a significant number of early details that help clarify the jeep’s history. History is messy and he acknowledges and gives insights into how things unfolded in the military and at Bantam in a easy to follow manner.
My only very minor quibble (and more a personal preference) is that I would have liked to see more end notes/sources, but he appropriately addresses this issue upfront. I also understand that it would have enlarged an already large book and their lack therein don’t take away from the book at all.