Re: After the Packard plant closed...

Posted by 58L8134 On 2010/9/30 17:38:24

Hi

Nothing fades away slower than old multi-story auto manufacturing plants.

On the question of what happened to the Studebaker plants, some continued in use as the parts depot SASCO, Avanti production continued until 1987, the administration building was used by the South Bend City School offices (is in the best condition and currently vacant), the Chippewa plant was taken over by AM General.

But the remainder languished, deteriorated and have been demolished. The City of South Bend is currently razing the old engineering building to redevelop the site.

When the River Rouge complex opened, all other multi-story plants days were numbered. GM was fortunate to get Willow Run, not only because of the urgent need in the aftermath of the fire, but also it was one-story, efficient space.

Consider this: imagine if one of Nance's first decisions was to buy Willow Run in 1953 and move Packard body and complete assembly there......your thoughts?

Steve