Studebaker Corporation

The H&C Studebaker blacksmith shop opened in 1852 in downtown South Bend, Indiana. Henry and Clement Studebaker's shop would turn into Studebaker Manufacturing Company in 1868 and become the largest wagon manufacturer in the world. Studebaker would also be the only manufacturer to successfully switch from horse drawn to gasoline powered vehicles. After the turn of the century Studebaker eased its way into the automobile market with an electric car in 1902, followed by gasoline powered cars in 1904. The Great Depression combined with questionable management lead Studebaker into receivership in 1933. During World War II Studebaker produced engines and vehicles for the military. Financial problems continued after the war and their final year in business was 1966.