Why Did Hood Ornaments Disappear from Cars?
A century ago, hood ornaments emerged as a way to conceal unattractive radiator caps. In earlier times, radiator caps were placed externally on vehicles, allowing motorists to monitor the coolant steam temperature easily. However, these caps did not make for appealing designs; thus, automobile manufacturers began exploring innovative options. Hood ornaments Originally designed to conceal unattractive radiator caps over a hundred years ago, these components were positioned externally to allow drivers to monitor the coolant steam temperature. Since those caps lacked aesthetic appeal, automobile manufacturers began enhancing their designs with decorative "hood ornaments." Initially, early automobiles did not feature coolant temperature gauges. An innovative firm developed the Moto-Meter, which was a thermometer attached to the radiator. Once car makers started integrating coolant temperature indicators into their designs, the Moto-Meter faded from use; however, cer...