Silver hip flask presented to Rem Fowler
Date made: 1907
Description: A silver hip flask presented to Rem Fowler by a well wisher for the best performance by any member of the Birmingham Motorcycle Club, in winning the 1907 inaugural Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (TT) race. Rem Fowler aboard the Peugeot-engined Norton was almost too ill to take part in the first race on the St John's course but was emboldened by a shot of brandy and milk. He was told the machine was too long for the winding course but showed his detractors to be wrong by winning.
This however proved to be the highlight of his career, for although he competed in other years this was his only win. He rode in 1908, 1909 and 1910, before taking part in the first TT on the Mountain Course, finishing 19th in the Junior, but failed to finish in the Senior due to machine problems.
The first twin cylinder TT race was won by Rem Fowler on a Peugeot-engined Norton, while a Matchless, ridden by its manufacturer Charlie Collier, won the single cylinder race.
Memorabilia from the first Isle of Man TT race is extremely rare. There were no individual trophies, no medals awarded and no specialist racing equipment. Apart from the St Mars Trophy, which is still awarded for the Senior TT, this engraved flask is the only known piece of material culture.
Materials: glass, leather, metal: plated, copper alloy, silver, wood: other, cork
Object name: flask
Collection: Social History Collection
ID Number: 2018-0121
Subject tags : #TT&MOTORSPORT