Re: New "What Ifs?"

Posted by Leeedy On 2014/8/7 20:02:58

For all of the postings and musings regarding why Packard didn't buy, want or need Willow Run, I believe Packard answered this very question in a very direct way in 1946.

An 8 x 10 glossy photo I have from Packard News Service showing a view of the Packard plant from Harper Avenue in Detroit was issued in 1946. Here is part of what the caption on the rear of the photo states:

"New buildings added during Packard's war production of aircraft and marine engines, can be seen in the foreground. The total represents MORE manufacturing floor area than famed Willow Run."

There was zero reason the schlep everything from EGB all the way out to Willow Run... which would have been a colossal waste of money-even if they had it to waste.

Packard said it themselves officially... in 1946... and well before the arrival of James J. Nance. So the attitude and stance of the company regarding WIllow Run was already in place long prior to JJN's arrival.