The images depict original 1940s correspondence from the The Bennett and Massa School of Race Driving (later known as the Burke and Mason School of Race Driving), a pioneering automotive education institution based in Oakland, California.
Historical Significance
Founder/Instructors: The school was founded by Jim Massa (often referred to as Jim Massa in period correspondence), a technical pioneer in Northern California Midget and Hardtop racing. One instructor, Marvin Burke, is a legendary West Coast driver who holds the NASCAR record for a 100% win percentage.
Curriculum: The "student program" outlined on the cards included theory and application of mechanical and chassis setups, applied race car driving techniques, and actual driving practice under race conditions, including night racing.
Locations:
Oakland Headquarters: 4824 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA.
Training Grounds: Lessons were held at venues such as Belmont Stadium (Belmont, CA) and Oakland Stadium. Oakland Stadium replaced the earlier Oakland Speedway after WWII and hosted racing events between 1946 and 1955.
