Alonzo T. Cross (Cross Writing Instrument Company) built the Cross Steam Carriage, the first automobile made in Rhode Island. He started in 1896 and finished in 1897. The various parts werr farmed out to local Providence suppliers although the chassis was constructed in the Cross Pencil Factory.
A local carriage buider, H. M. Howe Company, created the body and L. F. N. Baldwin (Cruickshank Engine Works) made two engines for the car, a four HP and a six HP version.[1]