AUTOMOTIVE STORIES

Lawrence was not the only woman to contribute to the auto industry during its formative years. In 1902, Mary Anderson was visiting New York City and, according to legend, became increasingly frustrated as the trolly driver was continuously stopping to clear snow from the front windows. Shortly after returning home to Alabama she designed and patented a hand operated blade that would clear the window without leaving the trolly. Soon numerous automobile manufacturers began offering a “windshield wiper” as an option or as standard equipment.

In 1924, Marie Luhring made history by becoming the first female truck designer when she was hired by Mack Trucks. She also became one of the first woman to join the Society of Automotive Engineers.

Raymond Loewy was an automotive designer of great renown. He was also a progressive visionary as evidenced by his hiring of Helen Dryden and Audrey Moore Hodges for the design studio at Studebaker. Nash was another progressive company. They hired Helen Rother Ackerkncoht at assist with development of streamlined bodies. The functional artistry of the 1941 Hudson instrument panel was the creation of Betty Thatcher.

Jim Hinckley’s America tells people where to go, and shares America’s story. The story of Florence Lawrence, and the pioneering women of the auto industry, are another forgotten chapter in the history of the American auto industry unveiled by America’s storyteller, author Jim Hinckley.