Ford, Henry, American automobile manufacturer and industrialist. Born Dearborn, Mich., July 30, 1863. Died Dearborn, Apr. 7, 1947.

Ford put America on wheels. Ford’s advancement in the automobile industry came about with his introduction to mass production. His famous Model T was affordable with a price as low as $260.00. Although being raised on a farm his true love was industry. In 1899 and 1901 he tried the auto industry but failed.

In 1903 the Ford Motor Company was born. He started with 28,000 dollars with 12 investors. His theory was to produce more automobiles at less cost per auto. Disagreements between Ford and stockholders forced him to buy all the company stock shares in 1919.

In 1925 and 1926 Model T sales decreased and quickly moving Chevrolet by General Motors became #1. Ford closed for nine months to retool for the Model A in 1927. In 1932 he produced the first V-8 engine.

Ford was a great employer and in 1914 he increased the minimum wage from $2.34 to $5.00 a day. He cut the day from 9 hours to 8 hours, and gave all employees a share in the company’s profits. He also signed the "First Union Contract" in the auto industry.