The Story of the Dodge Brothers: How It All Began

Apr 28, 2025

Meet the Dodge Brothers

When you think of powerful Dodge vehicles like the Dodge Durango or Dodge Challenger, you have two brothers to thank: John Francis Dodge and Horace Elgin Dodge.
They helped create the Dodge brand, which is now known for building strong, reliable cars and trucks.

Let’s take a look at their journey and how it led to the Dodge vehicles we know and love today.

Growing Up and Early Work

John and Horace Dodge grew up in Niles, Michigan. Their dad owned a machine shop, so they learned about tools and machines from a young age.

In 1886, their family moved to Detroit, Michigan, where the brothers worked hard in factories. They learned how to fix and build machines, and they quickly became skilled workers.

Before Building Cars: Bicycles and Machine Parts

Before they made cars, the Dodge brothers built bicycles. Horace created a special dirt-proof ball bearing that made their bikes better than others.
With John’s business skills and Horace’s creative ideas, they started the Evans & Dodge Bicycle Company.

Later, they sold the bike company and opened a machine shop in Detroit. They started making parts for cars, and their work caught the attention of big car companies.

Helping Build Oldsmobile and Ford

The Dodge brothers first made transmissions for the Oldsmobile company. They did such a great job that Ford Motor Company asked them to help build engines and other parts for Ford cars.

From 1903 to 1913, the Dodge brothers worked closely with Ford. They even became part-owners of the company! Their shop grew so big that they had to open a second factory to keep up with orders.

Starting Their Own Car Company

In 1913, John and Horace Dodge decided it was time to make their own cars. They wanted to build vehicles that were stronger and better than the ones already on the road.

In 1914, they introduced the Dodge Model 30, a car made to compete with Ford’s famous Model T. During World War I, they also built trucks and ambulances to help the military.

After the war, they focused on making vehicles for everyday people — and Dodge became a popular name in America.

What Happened After the Dodge Brothers Passed Away

Sadly, both Dodge brothers died in 1920 because of the flu. Their families later sold the company to a group of investors.
However, these investors didn’t know much about making cars, and Dodge began to struggle.

In 1928, Walter P. Chrysler bought the Dodge company and saved it. Dodge became part of the Chrysler group, and the brand started focusing more on performance, style, and strong trucks and cars.

During World War II, Dodge built vehicles to help the military again. After the war, Dodge returned to making fast, powerful cars — something it’s still known for today.

Dodge Today: A Brand Built on Strength

Thanks to John and Horace Dodge’s hard work, Dodge grew into a brand known for performance, toughness, and innovation.

From muscle cars like the Dodge Charger and Challenger to family-friendly SUVs like the Durango, Dodge keeps pushing forward while honoring its strong roots.

Find Your Dodge at Chris Crain CDJRF in Benton, AR

Now that you know the Dodge brothers’ story, are you ready to get behind the wheel of a Dodge?

Visit Chris Crain Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat in Benton, AR! We have a full selection of new Dodge vehicles ready for you to explore.

Start your own journey with a Dodge from Chris Crain CDJRF!

Tags: 2025 Dodge, Chris Crain CDJRF, Chris Crain Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat, Dodge Brothers, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Dodge History, Dodge Vehicle, Dodge Vehicles
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