February 28, 2006

Today in Automotive History

1903 Ford Hires Dodge

Henry Ford hired John F. and Horace E. Dodge to supply the chassis and running gear for his 650 Ford automobiles. John and Horace, who began their business careers as bicycle manufacturers in 1897, first entered the automobile industry as manufacturers of auto parts in 1901. Manufacturing car bodies for Henry Ford and Ransom Olds, the Dodge Brothers had become the largest parts-manufacturing firm in the U.S. by 1910. In 1914, the brothers founded the Dodge Brothers Motor Car Company, and began work on their first automobiles. Dodge vehicles were known for their quality and sturdiness, and by 1919 the Dodge Brothers were among the richest men in America. Their good fortune didn't hold, however. Both brothers died of influenza in 1920. Their company was sold to a New York bank, before eventually being purchased by Chrysler in 1928. Under Chrysler's direction, Dodge became a successful producer of cars and trucks marketed for their ruggedness.

Posted by Quality Weenie at February 28, 2006 08:09 AM | TrackBack
Comments

hi. just read ur blog. i say u do update it regularly and it certainly is a boon for autobuffs like me. if u would like to stay in touch pls mail me. and yes i agree. the Dodge Viper is a hell of a car and certainly fast and sturdy, though unfortunately the same does not come to mind when one thinks of Ford products, and considering that they had links earlier Ford has surely let down.

Posted by: Alekh at February 28, 2006 09:36 AM