Studebaker Corporation was an American wagon and automobile manufacturer based in South Bend, Indiana. Founded in 1852 and incorporated in 1868 as the Studebaker Brothers Manufacturing Company, the firm was originally a producer of wagons, buggies, carriages and harnesses. By the early 20th century, Studebaker had diversified into manufacturing automobiles. Studebaker’s success as an automobile manufacturer was due in large part to the vision of its president, Albert Russel Erskine. Erskine positioned Studebaker as a high-quality, stylish car at a price point between Ford and Cadillac. Studebaker was known for its innovative designs, including the electric car and the first car with an automatic transmission. Studebaker enjoyed success through the 1950s, but a number of factors led to its decline. In the 1960s, Studebaker merged with Packard, which proved to be a financial disaster. The company was unable to keep up with foreign competition and in 1966, Studebaker ended production of all automobiles. Today, antique Studebakers are prized by collectors for their unique style and historical significance. The Studebaker National Museum in South Bend, Indiana, celebrates the brand’s legacy.
Picture taken at the Glion Museum.
