The McFarlan Carriage Company was established in 1856 by John B. McFarlan, an English immigrant. By 1887, he had set up the Connersville Industrial Park, one of the first planned industrial parks in the United States. This brought together various manufacturers from the industry in a purpose-built industrial site. Over time, the park became a hub for automobile manufacturing and supported more than seven different automobile marques.
In 1909, McFarlan Carriage Company ventured into the automobile industry with the launch of the McFarlan motor car, which was a luxury vehicle. The company was rebranded as McFarlan Motor Car Company to reflect the shift in focus. Alfred Harry McFarlan, John's grandson, was responsible for the development of the McFarlan motor car and managed the McFarlan Motor Car Company throughout its nineteen-year history.
The McFarlan Motor Car Company gained popularity for its high-quality, luxurious cars and was known for its innovative designs and features. The company produced a range of models, including touring cars, limousines, roadsters, and speedsters. However, the Great Depression of the 1930s hit the automobile industry hard, and the McFarlan Motor Car Company was forced to shut down in 1928.