Ep 1. Horatio's Drive: America's First Road Trip

In the first episode of Horatio's Drive: America's First Road Trip, we are introduced to Horatio Nelson Jackson, a doctor from San Francisco who was determined to become the first person to drive across the United States. It was the summer of 1903, and automobiles were a new and relatively untested technology. But Horatio was not deterred by this, and with the help of his friend Sewall K. Crocker, he set out on his journey.

The episode begins with Horatio and Sewall purchasing a used Winton automobile for $50. They then begin to plan their route, which will take them from San Francisco all the way to New York City. Along the way, they will face numerous challenges, including rough roads, mechanical problems, and a lack of maps.

Despite these obstacles, Horatio and Sewall set out on their adventure, along with a bulldog named Bud who will become their loyal companion on the journey. The first leg of their trip takes them through the mountains of California, and they are forced to navigate treacherous roads and snowy conditions.

As they travel eastward, Horatio and Sewall encounter a variety of people and places, including cowboys, Native Americans, and small towns struggling to survive in the face of economic uncertainty. They also face personal challenges, such as fatigue and homesickness, as they spend weeks on the road.

Despite the difficulties, Horatio remains determined to make it to New York City. Along the way, he and Sewall become local celebrities, attracting crowds wherever they go. They also encounter numerous other automobiles on the road, including some driven by women, highlighting the rapidly changing social and technological landscape of early twentieth-century America.

By the end of the episode, Horatio and Sewall have made it to the Midwest, where they encounter new challenges and adventures. They have also gained a greater appreciation for the vastness and diversity of their country, as well as the pioneering spirit that has driven Americans for generations.

Overall, the first episode of Horatio's Drive: America's First Road Trip is a fascinating look at one man's determination to make history and the trials and triumphs he faced along the way. It is a testament to the adventurous spirit of early Americans and the power of travel to bring people together and inspire change.