The Maxwell and Chrysler years

Henry County’s 200year history includes an extensive background in automotive manufacturing. At the center of this history is the Maxwell plant, which eventually became Chrysler. This history topic was the subject of not one, but two presentations late last year by Henry County Historical Society President Gene Ingram.

The first, hosted by the New Castle-Henry County Public Library, was held Thursday, Oct. 13 in the library auditorium. It focused on both the Maxwell and Chrysler automobile history here.

The second presentation, held Nov. 9 at the Henry County Historical Society Museum, focused only the Maxwell-Briscoe Automobile Factory, its origins and impacts.

Both programs were well-attended and well-received. You can view either or both on the Henry County Historical Society’s YouTube channel.

Dozens of vintage photos are featured as Ingram traces the tracks of the Maxwell Automobile from its creation at the turn of the 20th century to its arrival in New Castle and its transition into one of the original six Chrysler Corp. plants. Ingram will also highlight the unique stories behind the Maxwell, including the Nip and Tuck Coun - try Club, the automobile company’s mark on major sporting events and more.

Here is one of the most unique and important photos in New Castle history. It was taken in October, 1906, at the Nip and Tuck Country Club, where auto manufacturers Jonathan Maxwell and Benjamin Briscoe were wined and dined in an effort to lure their new automobile factory, originally planned in Muncie, to New Castle. Gene Ingram’s PowerPoint presentation dives into that momentous time which led to the largest automobile factory in the world at that time coming to New Castle.

For the second consecutive year, the New Castle High School Madridgal Singers performed at the Henry County Historical Society Christmas Open House. The well-attended event was held Sunday, Dec. 4.