Cars
The Nostalgia of Forgotten Gods: Studebaker, USA, 1904-1966
Studebaker, founded in 1852, transitioned from producing wheelbarrows to automobiles, excelling with models like the Champion and Avanti. Despite innovative designs by Raymond Loewy, it couldn't survive against the "Big Three" and closed in 1966.
The Studebaker Brothers Manufacturing Company was founded in 1852 in Indiana and quickly found success producing wheelbarrows for gold rush miners. After making wagons for the U.S. Army, Studebaker entered the automobile market in 1902 with an electric car designed by Thomas Alva Edison. In 1904 under the name “Studebaker Automobile Company” the first combustion engine car was produced. It was praised for its technical quality and reliability.
In the 1920s, Studebaker became a major player in the automotive industry with the successful Special Six and Big Six models. In 1928, Studebaker acquired the luxury car manufacturer Pierce-Arrow, increasing its prestige. Despite the Wall Street crash, Studebaker survived the crisis with models such as the Dictator, Commander and President.
