Seeking Info on Vincent D Kaptur - Packard body development 1919-1928

Posted by allcars On 2012/9/12 13:40:13

I am writing a biography of former Packard employee Vincent D. Kaptur (Sr) for a collector magazine.

The late Mr. Kaptur worked at Packard from 1919 to 1928, in roles variously described as a body engineer, body designer and, by 1928, chief body designer. He may have also briefly worked at Packard between 1916 and mid-1917, as a "mechanical draftsman." He was a proficient illustrator and some of his drawings may have appeared in company literature.

His descendants say he recalled working under Col. Vincent and that he became acquainted with Gordon Buehrig and Werner Gubitz while at Packard.

Mr. Kaptur is best known for pioneering General Motors' body sharing program in the early 1930s. He joined the GM Art & Colour Section in November 1928 and was instrumental in developing GM production body designs until his retirement in 1956.

I'm wondering if any reader has noted surviving Packard documents that mention Mr. Kaptur? He might be named in a memo, company phone book, or other document issued during the period he was at Packard. Such listings could could help us verify his titles and construct a time-line of his responsibilities while he was at Packard.

Any information or leads will be most appreciated.

Thank you.