1919 Pierce-Arrow Series 31 Vestibule Suburban
Pierce-Arrow’s Series 31 Vestibule Suburban represented luxury transportation at its finest during the final years of the Nickel Era. The model earned its name from two sources: its purpose of transporting wealthy families between urban residences and country estates, and its distinctive architectural design feature.
The roofline rose prominently above the rear doors, creating an entrance reminiscent of a grand manor’s vestibule.
This elevated rear section allowed passengers to enter and exit while wearing formal attire and tall hats without difficulty. The White House selected Pierce-Arrow automobiles for official use during this era, underscoring the marque’s reputation for prestige and craftsmanship.
While specific records of Vestibule Suburbans in presidential service are scarce, Pierce-Arrows were the preferred choice for U.S. presidents from Taft through Hoover.
Built on the Model 31 chassis, these vehicles featured Pierce-Arrow’s renowned engineering quality and attention to detail. Power came from a 6.8-liter (414 cu in) T-head inline-six engine producing about 75 horsepower, paired with a four-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels.
The driver’s compartment typically featured black leather upholstery with practical linoleum flooring, while rear passengers enjoyed luxurious broadcloth seating. Side-mounted spare tires, wooden artillery wheels, and the company’s signature fender-mounted headlamps were standard equipment.
Very few Vestibule Suburbans survive today, making them exceptionally rare among collectors of early American motorcars. The Series 31 exemplified Pierce-Arrow’s ability to combine practical functionality with elegant coachwork during an era when custom bodywork defined true automotive luxury.
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