Ford History

Like many major companies, Ford started off small. It was founded in 1903 by Henry Ford, and twelve investors put up $28,000 to start the business. The very first car to be produced by the company was the Ford Model T, and during its early days, the company only produced a few of these cars on a daily basis. A few men would spend time constructing each car from parts which were ordered by multiple companies.

Henry was forty years old when he started the company, and not only would it eventually become one of the largest car companies in the world, it would survive the Great Depression, a feat that many companies of the time would not share. In addition to being one of the most profitable companies on the planet, Ford is also the largest company to be owned by a single family. The two investors who are well known for providing capital for Ford include Horace Dodge and John Dodge, and these two men would go on to create the Dodge Motor Company.

Henry Ford is known for having a great deal of tenacity and determination. Though he did not have the advanced engineering knowledge which involved automobile production, it was a master at bringing together a team of people who did. His strong leadership qualities and vision allowed him to grow the company within a short period of time. The very first Model Ts were constructed at the Piquette Plant.

Once demand for the Model T grew, the company would eventually move to Highland Park so that they could increase their production capacity. In 1913, the company had the assembly line methods which would allow them to maximize their production. It was during this time that Ford showcased the very first assembly line. At first, this system was very challenging to the workers, and the company had a high turnover rate.