Tuesday, June 9, 2015

The History Of The Kissel Car

By Elaine Guthrie


Throughout time, the automobile has gone through quite an evolution with advancements in technology, body design and performance. Certain models have become classics for a variety of reasons ranging from historical precedence to special qualities. The Kissel Car Company has produced quite a few of these treasured machines.

It was established in 1906 by a father and his three sons as an innovative company operating out of Hartford, Wisconsin. Circumstances including a world war and a damaged and failing economy, contributed to their need to claim bankruptcy in 1930. Although they did not stay in production very long, this unique manufacturer built a reputation for producing products of extreme durability and incredible quality.

While in operation, there were more than 35,000 vehicles in a wide range of styles, types, functionality and designs produced. This repertoire included standard cars, taxis, trucks, hearses, ambulances, firetrucks and utility vans. Several unique factors gave this company a bit of an edge over many others of that time period.

The focus of the team that managed design and production was to combine extreme craftsmanship with creative engineering ideas to set themselves above their competitors. They took great pride in being able to boast adding unique features and implementing innovative technologies in each vehicle. Every single one was given the same attention to detail and quality, yet remained reasonably priced.

Products manufactured under this name were known for incredible style and ultimate elegance, and certain models often sported new and unexpected design or technological features. One such innovation was the use of the Warner 4-speed selective sliding gear transmission. They were also known for using solid rubber tires on wooden spokes instead of metal.

Probably the most unique feature that made this manufacturer different than all their competitors was the fact that they did not randomly mass produce exact vehicles. The automobiles were only produced when there was an order customized to the customer's desired specifications. Intended owners were able to make several choices as a way to build their own uniquely designed ride that was best set for their needs and likes.

Among those options were several design choices that would alter the overall aesthetics. These included pancake drum or bullet headlights, up to three bumper bars, running boards versus step stirrups, leather upholstery or fabric, spare wheels mounted on the side or the rear, back seat placement and optional golf bag brackets. Each selection made contributed to creating a one of a kind ride in which the individual could take great pride in and boast of having designed it themselves.

Only approximately 150 vehicles of more than 35,000 produced, are documented as still existing today. The Duesenburg, The Speedster, The Roadster, The Packard, The Pierce Arrow and the All-Year were among the most treasured models that will always be the representatives of this company's dedication to durability and integrity and the attention to detail given each creation. Many period celebrities such as Fatty Arbuckle, Al Jolson, Anita King, Greta Garbo and Amelia Earhart were big fans and had to own one of these products.




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