Abstract:
Jim Doyer runs away from his, North Dakota family farm in the early 1920s. He develops skill as an auto mechanic, at first with the Model T Ford, which earns him the moniker of “CLUTCH”. He quickly moves on to servicing the high-speed vehicles of the big time bootleggers north of Chicago in Janesville, Wisconsin, soon being elevated by the Don of the liquor syndicate to the position of captain. Lawlessness, including murder, wealth and lurid love determine his lifestyle. The death of his sweetheart, plus the impending repeal of prohibition, move him back to North Dakota, where he happily marries and develops a successful bar/pool hall enterprise. Tragedy strikes again with the death of an infant son. Depression and alcoholism ensue, not relieved by the birth of a second son. He dies from his alcoholism.