Henry Ford

At the age of 12, Henry Ford showed an early interest in mechanics and spent most of his spare time in a small machine shop he had equipped himself.

Henry Ford's father, William Ford, a native of County Cork, Ireland, settled on a farm in Wayne County, Michigan, in 1847 after coming to America.

Henry Ford, the founder of Ford Motor Company and pioneer of assembly line production, was born in 1863.

Henry Ford was born on July 30, 1863 in Dearborn, Michigan.

Henry Ford, an American industrialist and founder of Ford Motor Company, was born on July 30, 1863.

Henry Ford's mother passed away in 1876 when he was only 13 years old.

Henry Ford left for Detroit in September 1879.

This event marks an important time in the early life of Henry Ford.

Henry Ford marries Clara Ala Bryant on April 11, 1888. This event is significant as it is believed that his wife shaped him to be the good man he became.

Henry was employed as an engineer at the Edison Illuminating Company of Detroit. He learned about electricity whilst in the company. He will also eventually meet Thomas Edison, the founder of the company.

On November 6, 1893, Henry Ford's first and only child, Edsel Ford, is born. Henry adored his son and eventually gave him the Ford Motor Company. This is significant because Edsel later became the president of the Ford Motor Company.

On June 4, 1896, Henry Ford finished building his first car.

With financial investors attracted by his quadricycle, Henry Ford forms the Detroit Automobile Company. This marks the beginning of his journey in the automobile industry.

On November 1, 1899, Henry Ford created the Detroit automobile company, later named the Henry Ford Company, which was eventually shut down. This event is important because it was one of Ford's companies before he hit it big with the Ford Motor Company.

Around 1900, Henry Ford left the Detroit Automobile Company within a year of its founding. His departure from the company eventually led to the establishment of the Ford Motor Company, which became a major player in the automotive industry.

On October 10, 1901, Henry Ford achieved victory over Alexander Winton with his racing car, Sweepstakes, at a track in Grosse Pointe, Michigan.

Following his victory, Henry Ford builds a newer, more powerful racer called the 999, which sets an American speed record of five miles in five minutes 28 seconds.

On June 16, 1903, Henry Ford founded the Ford Motor Company after the dissolution of the Henry Ford Company, which lasted four months. The innovations in manufacturing and the success of the Model T later on made Ford the leading car manufacturer in the country and one of the most successful companies in history.

On June 17, 1903, Henry Ford and a group of investors founded the Ford Motor Company, which would go on to become one of the largest and most profitable companies in the world, revolutionizing the automobile industry with the introduction of assembly line production.

The first car built by Ford Motor Company was sold on July 15, 1903, marking the beginning of the company's sales and production.

On January 12, 1904, Henry Ford set a world record for the mile by covering the distance in 39.4 seconds with his racing car, the 999, on the winter ice of Lake St. Clair.

Henry Ford became the President of Ford Motor Company.

On October 1, 1908, Henry Ford introduced the Model T, which became a huge commercial success due to its durability, flexibility, and affordability. It quickly gained popularity, and ten years later, nearly half of the Americans were driving one.

Henry Ford introduced the iconic Model T on October 1, 1908, revolutionizing the automobile industry with its affordability and mass production techniques.

In 1910, Ford inaugurated the Highland Park Plant, a significant milestone in the expansion of the company's manufacturing capabilities.

In 1911, Ford established its first overseas plant in Trafford Park, Manchester, England, expanding its manufacturing operations beyond the United States.

On April 1, 1913, Ford initiated its first experiments with the assembly line at the Highland Park Plant, revolutionizing the production process and paving the way for modern manufacturing techniques.

Ford's Highland Park factory begins operating the first moving automobile assembly line in the world, employing about 13,000 men by the end of the year.

Ford Motor announces the $5/day wage for an eight-hour work day, replacing the previous pay rate and attracting 10,000 job seekers at Highland Park.

Henry Ford begins secretly buying hundreds of acres of farmland along the River Rouge to build what would become known as the Rouge Plant.

On December 10, 1915, Ford achieved a significant milestone by producing its 1 millionth car, reflecting the company's rapid growth and impact on the automotive industry.

In April 1917, construction commenced on the Rouge Plant in Dearborn, Michigan, which would become one of the largest and most famous industrial complexes in the world, symbolizing Ford's industrial prowess.

On July 2, 1917, Ford introduced its first truck, which was powered by the renowned Model T engine, marking the company's entry into the commercial vehicle market.

In October 1917, Ford commenced production of the Fordson tractor, a significant development in agricultural machinery that would have a lasting impact on farming practices.

In 1918, the Rouge Plant produced its first products, which were Eagle Boats for the US Navy, contributing to the war effort during World War I.

On January 1, 1919, Ford implemented the $5 daily wage for an 8-hour workday, a pioneering move that significantly improved the livelihoods of factory workers and set a new standard for labor practices.

Henry announces to establish a new company, which scared Ford Motors stockholders into selling their stocks. Ford's announcement is revealed to be a trick: his agents had purchased all of the stocks and there would be no rival automobile company.

On May 22, 1920, Henry Ford started publishing a controversial series of articles in The Dearborn Independent, titled 'The International Jew: The World's Problem,' which he had purchased a year and a half earlier.

The commencement of Fordson tractor production at the Rouge Plant in 1921 marked a significant expansion of the plant's manufacturing capabilities.

Ford purchased Lincoln from his former business associate Henry Leland, leading to the production of luxury cars such as the K-Series, Zephyr, and the classic Continental Mk. II.

In 1924, the Rouge Plant opened its doors to the public, offering the first public tours of the industrial facility, providing insight into Ford's innovative manufacturing processes.

Ford started the production of the Ford Tri-Motor airplanes, also known as the 'Tin Goose,' which became one of the first airplanes used by America’s early commercial airlines.

In 1926, Henry Ford receives a memo from Ernest Kanzler, a Ford VP and Edsel's brother-in-law, suggesting the end of Model T production due to declining sales and the need for a new model. This leads to growing tension among executives and Ford's harsh treatment of Kanzler, ultimately resulting in his departure from the company.

On the same day as the 15-millionth Model T production, Ford announces the production of a new vehicle, the Model A, after discontinuing the Model T due to pressure from Edsel and other executives. This decision marks a major shift in Ford's automobile production.

After producing 15 million Model T cars, Ford closed plants worldwide for six months to retool factories and improve the design of a new car due to increasing competition from other automakers.

In 1927, Henry Ford bought land in Brazil to establish rubber plantations, which later became known as 'Fordlandia'. This was part of Ford's attempt to create a self-sufficient supply of rubber for his company.

This event refers to the groundbreaking of the Ford Rouge Complex in 1927, which was a significant industrial development in the United States. It represented a new approach to manufacturing, integrating various processes and technologies under one roof.

Highland Park is shut down for six months to prepare for the production of the new Model A. The immense project involves scrapping, rebuilding, or refurbishing almost 75% of all existing tools. This marks a significant investment and effort by Ford to transition to the new model.

In 1928, the iconic Ford Model T is discontinued after achieving a remarkable sales figure of over 15 million vehicles, signifying the end of an era in automobile manufacturing.

In an attempt to support his workers and mitigate the impact of the Depression, Henry Ford introduces the $7 day. However, despite his efforts, between 1929 and 1932, Ford is forced to lay off almost half of his workforce.

Received an honorary Doctor of Law degree from Colgate University.

In 1931, Ford introduced the Model A, which was a significant milestone for Ford Motor Company. The car featured the iconic Blue Oval logo and innovative elements like a Safety Glass windshield. Despite the challenges of the Great Depression, over five million Model As were sold by Ford.

In 1932, Ford introduced the flathead V8 engine, which was a groundbreaking innovation. Henry Ford dedicated significant resources to this project, shutting down other production operations to engineer the first commercially successful V8 engine.

In 1933, Ford establishes the Edison Institute, later known as the Henry Ford Museum, showcasing his commitment to preserving and celebrating technological and industrial advancements.

A composite photograph from 1934 featuring portraits of Henry Ford and Edsel Ford, as well as images of the Ford Mack Avenue and Rouge Plants. The photograph showcases the historical significance of these locations within the Ford Motor Company's history, highlighting the evolution and expansion of the company's facilities.

Ford began selling the Lincoln Zephyr line, which was designed to sell at a price point between the Ford V8 De Luxe and the high-end luxury cars offered by Lincoln. The sleek, aerodynamic shapes of Lincoln-Zephyr helped make the brand a sales success.

Ford security staff violently attacks United Auto Worker (UAW) members distributing pro-union leaflets at the Rouge. The incident, famously captured by photographers, is known as 'The Battle of the Overpass.'

Ford unveiled the medium-priced Mercury brand, which aimed to fill the gap between the Ford V8 De Luxe and the high-end luxury cars. The introduction of the Mercury brand expanded Ford's market presence.

The Henry Ford Heritage Association was founded to celebrate the life and achievements of Henry Ford and to preserve the history of the Ford Motor Company.

In April 1941, 50,000 Ford employees outside the Rouge refuse to work until Ford agrees to meet union demands for higher wages, overtime pay, and job security. Ford expresses his reluctance to give in to the union's demands.

In June 1941, Ford declares his willingness to shut down his factories rather than give in to union demands for higher wages, overtime pay, and job security. This event reflects Ford's firm stance against the union's demands.

In July 1941, Henry Ford, after initially declaring that he would rather close factories than meet union demands for higher pay, agrees to give workers some of the highest wages in the industry and a union shop.

During 1942, the production of civilian cars was halted due to the impact of World War II.

Edsel Ford, the son of Henry Ford and the president of Ford Motor Company, passed away on April 7, 1943.

Edsel Ford dies at 49 from stomach cancer. Henry is heavily devastated, affecting both his physical and mental condition.

The day before Henry Ford's 75th birthday, a pageant at Ford Field in Dearborn is attended by Henry, Clara, and 40,000 spectators. The event features 700 performers re-enacting scenes from Ford's life.

Henry Ford II became the president of Ford in 1945 and later served as chairman and CEO. He implemented modern management systems with the help of the 'Whiz Kids' to transform the company into a disciplined organization.

On September 21, 1945, Henry Ford resigned as president, and recommended his eldest grandson, Henry Ford II, as his successor.

Henry Ford II, Edsel's oldest son and president of Ford Motor Company for just six weeks, sells Fordlandia back to the Brazilian government for a fraction of its value.

In July 1946, 50,000 people cheered for Henry Ford in Dearborn at a giant 83rd birthday party, lauding his contributions to the automotive industry.

Henry Ford dies at Fair Lane at age 83.

In 1948, Ford introduced the iconic F-Series trucks, which have since become a staple in the American automotive market.

The 1949 Ford was the first all-new American car design to come out of Detroit after WWII. It featured a wind tunnel-tested aerodynamic shape, integrated pontoon fenders, airplane-inspired spinner grille, and an updated V8, marking a radical change from the previous models.

In 1953, Ford introduced the first all-new cars built at the Rouge since World War II, marking a significant milestone in automotive history.

Ford introduced the Thunderbird, which emphasized comfort and convenience over sportiness. The car's performance, design, and distinctive porthole windows made it a classic in automotive history.

Under William Clay Ford, the 1956 Mk. II was a revival of the 1941 Continental, which originated from a custom car designed for Edsel Ford's private use. It was named after the 'continental' cars seen in Europe, reflecting stylish and elegant design.

The Edsel was introduced during a recession in the United States, which led to it being considered the wrong car for the wrong time. Despite this, its highly unique styling has made it a valuable collector's car up to the present day.

Ford Credit was founded during this year, marking a significant development in the financial services sector of the Ford Motor Company.

From 1961 to 1974, Ford owned Philco, during which the company produced consumer electronics, computer systems, and military projects. Philco's capabilities in transistors, solid-state devices, and microelectronics were utilized for NASA's Apollo and Gemini space programs.

A large 'Ford' sign at the Rouge Plant was captured in a photograph circa 1964, depicting the significance of the Ford Motor Company and its presence at the industrial complex.

In 1965, the production of the iconic Ford Mustang began at the Rouge, shaping the future of American muscle cars.

In 1966, Ford broke Ferrari's six-year winning streak at Le Mans, becoming the first American manufacturer to achieve victory in the race. This marked the beginning of Ford's four consecutive victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans from 1966 to 1969 with various generations of the GT40.

In 1971, the Rouge Plant Tours set a new yearly record with 239,669 visitors, showcasing the plant's significance as a tourist attraction and industrial marvel.

Ford of Europe introduced the Ford Fiesta, a popular and influential compact car that has made a significant impact on the automotive market. The Fiesta has become one of Ford's most successful models, contributing to the company's global presence.

Philip Caldwell is promoted from Vice Chairman to CEO and President of Ford Motor Company on October 1, 1979.

Henry Ford II retires from his position as Chairman of Ford Motor Company in 1980.

Philip Caldwell retires from his position at Ford Motor Company on February 1, 1985.

Henry Ford II passes away on September 29, 1987.

In 1998, Ford launched Ford Pro™, a new business platform focused on commercial and government fleet customers, aiming to provide innovative transportation solutions.

In 1999, Fortune magazine named Henry Ford the Businessman of the Century, recognizing his significant impact on the business world.

Construction begins at Willow Run on March 28, 2014. It marks the start of a significant project.

Henry Ford, the American industrialist, revolutionized factory production with his innovative assembly-line methods, leaving a lasting impact on the industrial world. His contributions to the automotive industry and manufacturing processes continue to be celebrated and studied.

The Reinventing the Rouge exhibition showcased the transformation of the historic Ford Rouge Complex into a sustainable, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. It highlighted Ford's commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability.

The Ford Rouge Factory offers educational field trips for students to learn about the history and innovation of the automotive industry.