The History of Ford: Over a Century of American Innovation
Not many companies have influenced the way America drives, works and dreams quite like the Ford Motor Company. From revolutionizing factory production to building some of the most recognizable vehicles on the planet, the Ford story is one of grit, vision and true American ingenuity.
As a collection of proud Ford dealers, we're honored to keep that tradition alive for drivers across Pennsylvania and West Virginia. When you shop at our Greater Pittsburgh Ford dealers, you're not just buying into a legendary brand, you're joining our family, where every visit is warm, welcoming and pressure-free.
Who Started Ford Motor Company?
Henry Ford established the Ford Motor Company on June 16, 1903, in Dearborn, Michigan. He wasn't the first to build a car, but his ambition reached far beyond any single vehicle. Ford believed automobiles shouldn't be reserved for the elite; they should be within reach of hardworking, everyday families. That belief shaped everything that followed.
So, what's behind the Ford name? It comes directly from its founder Henry Ford, but the brand rapidly became a symbol of affordability, toughness and mass production. When Ford rolled out the moving assembly line in 1913, it didn't just change the auto industry; it reshaped how the entire world manufactured goods.
The Ford family continues to hold major ownership and leadership roles, with Executive Chairman William Clay Ford Jr. carrying on the founding legacy more than 120 years later.
What Is Ford Known For?
Ford has built its name on rugged, reliable vehicles that get real work done. From the best-selling F-150 to the iconic Mustang and adventure-ready Bronco, Ford consistently delivers rides that blend capability with everyday practicality. That reputation comes from generations of engineering know-how and a willingness to keep evolving.
Here are a few interesting facts that show just how much influence Ford has had:
- The Ford Model T, launched in 1908, is widely credited with putting middle-class America behind the wheel
- The F-Series has held the title of America's best-selling truck for over 47 straight years
- Ford was the first major automaker to offer a hybrid-electric police vehicle
- The Mustang, debuting in 1964, invented an entirely new category: the "pony car"
- The Ford GT40 won the 24 Hours of Le Mans four consecutive years, from 1966 to 1969
That drive to innovate is something we admire every day. As Ford President Award winners and the No. 1 Ford dealer in PA, we here at Shults Ford hold ourselves to the same high standards Ford has upheld for over a century. Drivers throughout Pennsylvania and West Virginia trust us because we treat every customer like family.
Timeline: Key Moments in Ford History
The path from a modest Dearborn workshop to one of the largest automakers on Earth is packed with milestones. Here's a look at the moments that defined Ford:
- 1903: Ford Motor Company is officially incorporated with $28,000 in capital
- 1908: The Model T launches and eventually sells more than 15 million units
- 1913: The moving assembly line debuts, cutting build time from 12 hours to about 93 minutes
- 1922: Ford acquires Lincoln Motor Company and enters the luxury segment
- 1941-1945: Ford retools for the war effort, producing B-24 Liberator bombers, jeeps and tank engines
- 1948: The legendary F-Series truck line begins its historic run
- 1964: The Mustang debuts at the New York World Fair, selling over 400,000 units in year one
- 1966: The Ford GT40 stuns Ferrari at Le Mans in one of racing's greatest upsets
- 1986: The Taurus sets a new benchmark for American sedan design
- 1990: Ford introduces the legendary Ford Explorer
- 2004: The F-150 introduces a fully boxed frame, raising the bar for full-size trucks
- 2020: The all-electric Mustang Mach-E arrives, marking the Ford brand's push into electrification
- 2022: The F-150 Lightning launches as the first all-electric Ford pickup
This timeline reflects a brand that keeps pushing forward while honoring its roots. Whether you're browsing our new Ford inventory or hunting for a quality used Ford for sale near Pittsburgh, you're choosing a vehicle backed by more than 120 years of heritage.
Experience the Ford Legacy at Shults Ford in PA & WV
Ford history is rooted in the idea that great vehicles should be available to everyone, and that's a value we share at every one of our Greater Pittsburgh Ford locations. We keep 1,000 to 1,500 vehicles on hand at any given time, so whether you want gas, hybrid or electric, you'll find the perfect match. Plus, our $500 best price guarantee means cost won't stand between you and your next Ford.1
We're also deeply woven into our community, supporting the Pittsburgh Penguins, local high school sports, annual turkey giveaways and scholarship programs.
Ford Dealers in Wexford, PA
Ready to become part of the Ford story? Contact Shults Ford today to schedule a test-drive, browse our lineup or simply learn more about what makes us Greater Pittsburgh's favorite Ford dealers, where cowboy hats are our brand and "YEEHAW!" is our promise.
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Ford History FAQs
Who founded Ford Motor Company?
Henry Ford founded the Ford Motor Company on June 16, 1903, in Dearborn, Michigan. He built the brand around making dependable vehicles affordable for everyday working families.
Is Ford still owned by the Ford family?
Yes. The Ford family still holds significant ownership and leadership, with Executive Chairman William Clay Ford Jr. continuing the founding family involvement more than 120 years later.
What did the moving assembly line change?
Introduced in 1913, the moving assembly line transformed manufacturing worldwide. It slashed vehicle build time from 12 hours to about 93 minutes.
What is the best-selling Ford truck?
The Ford F-Series is America's best-selling truck, holding that spot for over 47 consecutive years. You can explore F-Series trucks at Shults Ford in Wexford.
Does Ford make electric vehicles?
Yes. Ford builds the all-electric Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, giving drivers powerful, efficient EV options.
Why choose Shults Ford?
Shults Ford is a Ford President Award winner and the No. 1 Ford dealer in PA. We offer 1,000 to 1,500 vehicles, a $500 best price guarantee and a family-first experience across Greater Pittsburgh.