Monday 16th February 1852

H & C Studebaker, a blacksmith and wagon building business, was founded by Henry and Clement Studebaker in South Bend, Indiana. They converted to car manufacturing, becoming one of the larger US independent car manufacturers. During World War II, Studebaker manufactured airplanes for the war effort and emphasised its patriotic role by releasing cars called “The President,” “The Champion,” and “The Commander.” Post World War II competition drove Studebaker to its limits, and the company merged with the Packard Corporation in 1954. Financial hardship continued however as they continued to lose money over the next several years. Studebaker rebounded in 1959 with the introduction of the compact Lark but it was short lived. The 1996 Cruiser marked the end of the Studebaker after 114 years.