Teetor’s “Cruise Control” no doubt was the first introduction to the “self-driving” and “autonomous” cars, now in the forefront of today’s technology. Teetor’s “Speed-o-Stat” is displayed at the new Smithsonian’s Nation of Speed exhibit, and in 1988, Teetor was posthumously inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame, where his exhibit resides today. 

Since I was a young boy, I’ve been inspired by my Uncle Ralph, and particularly after reading the insightful 1995 book, “One Man’s Vision – The Life of Automotive Pioneer Ralph R. Teetor,” written by his daughter Marjorie Teetor Meyer. In 2013, during a family reunion, we discussed a possible film on his story. This inspired my journey of making the film. 

In October of 2021, we conducted our location shoot in Hagerstown, Indiana, Teetor’s 1890 birthplace, and filmed interviews with my four cousins, Teetor’s grandchildren. I examined photos, and extensive archives, and discovered writings, articles, tributes, and news clippings of this innovative and inspirational leader, who had an enormous impact on the automotive world and on people’s lives everywhere. We have recorded a temporary voice-over track and are now engaged in the challenging editorial phase.  

Despite his loss of sight at age five, Teetor’s parents taught him to “look” at things with his hands. He accepted the challenge to live a normal life, but in a world of darkness. His story has inspired people from all around the world.