Elias Bowie facts for kids

Elias Abraham Bowie Jr. (born May 10, 1910 – died January 26, 2005) was an American professional stock car racing driver. He made history as the first African-American person to start a top-level NASCAR race. This important event happened in 1955 at the Bay Meadows Racetrack.

Elias Bowie: A Racing Pioneer

Elias Bowie is remembered for breaking barriers in the world of stock car racing. He was a pioneer who opened doors for future generations. His single race in NASCAR's top series made a lasting impact.

His Historic Race

Elias Bowie's only start in the NASCAR Grand National Series took place on July 31, 1955. He drove a Cadillac car at the Bay Meadows Racetrack. This track was a mile-long dirt oval.

Bowie completed 172 laps out of 252 in the race. He finished 28th among 34 cars. People at the race noticed that he had the largest pit crew. This showed the support he had for his historic entry.

Early Life and Background

Elias Bowie was born in 1910 in San Antonio, Texas. His mother worked as a laundress, and his father was a hotel porter. He grew up in a time when opportunities were limited for African-Americans.

Later in his life, Bowie became a successful businessman. He worked as a transportation entrepreneur. This means he owned and managed businesses related to moving people or goods. He built his businesses in the San Francisco Bay area of California.