Art Cross

Early Years and Beginnings in Racing

Art Cross, born on January 24, 1918, in Jersey City, New Jersey, embarked on his racing journey in 1938 by competing in midget car races. His early career was interrupted by his service as a tank commander during the Second World War, where he bravely fought in the Battle of the Bulge and was awarded a Purple Heart. After the war, Cross returned to racing, rejoining the midget car circuits and driving one of Pappy Hough’s “Little Iron Pigs.”

Major Successes and Highlights

Cross’s racing career peaked with his remarkable performance in the Indianapolis 500. He made history in 1952 by becoming the first recipient of the Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year Award, following a fifth-place finish. His most notable achievement came in 1953, where he finished second in one of the hottest Indy 500 races on record. Remarkably, both Cross and the winner, Bill Vukovich, completed the race without any relief drivers, a testament to their endurance and skill. Cross’s car, the “Springfield Welding Special,” was notably owned by Bessie Lee Paoli, the only female owner in the race at that time.

Life and Legacy After Retiring from Racing

After retiring from the high-speed world of racing, Cross shifted his focus to farming, purchasing a farm near LaPorte, Indiana, with his earnings from racing. He also ventured into the heavy equipment business and construction. His contributions to racing were not forgotten, as he was inducted into the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame in 1992. Art Cross passed away on April 15, 2005, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering figure in American auto racing.

Career Stats

Seasons Competed in

1. 1952 Season
2. 1953 Season
3. 1954 Season
4. 1955 Season