Henry Ford 150: Commemorating a Visionary Legacy in Pictures

DEARBORN, Mich., July 30, 2013 – Today marks the 150th anniversary of Henry Ford’s birth. Born in 1863, Henry Ford lived to be 83 years old and became an industrial icon whose character, commitment and ingenuity continue to be revered today.

Young Henry Ford

An appreciation for machines and engineering started early for Henry Ford. By the age of 12, he had established his own small shop and eventually became a machinist’s apprentice with James F. Flower and Bros. in Detroit.

Henry and Clara

Henry Ford married Clara Bryant in 1888 and is quoted as saying, “The greatest day of my life, was the day I married Mrs. Ford."

Henry and Quadricycle

The Quadricycle was the first “horseless carriage” developed by Henry Ford. The creation was completed in 1896 and it used four bicycle tires and a gas-powered engine.

Henry Ford in Model A

Sales of the Model A began in 1903. The first 20 letters of the alphabet were used to name vehicles – many of which were experimental iterations that never intended for public sale.

Henry and 999 race car

Pioneering the sport of car racing, Henry Ford developed the Ford 999. He set the world speed record of 91.37 MPH driving the 999 on frozen Lake St. Clair in January of 1904.

Fordson Tractor

Henry Ford helps farmer plow a field in a Fordson tractor in 1918. Henry Ford did not enjoy farm-work; fortunately he was given the ability to develop machines that made this work easier.

Henry and Henry Ford II

Henry Ford and grandson Henry Ford II in 1920. Henry Ford II took over the reigns as president of Ford Motor Company in 1945.

Model T

Edsel and Henry in 1921 with a Model T. Built between 1909 and 1927, the Model T started out with an introductory price of $825 and ushered in a new era of mass production.

Henry V8

Stamping the number on the first V8 engine in 1932.

Henry and Little Girl

Henry Ford once said "Trouble with the world today is people don't go to children enough. I don't like old people. I stay away from them." (Detroit Times, Paul Gallico interview, Jan. 11, 1938)

Rouge Plant

Edsel and Henry Ford visiting the construction site of the Rouge tool and Die shop in 1938.

Ford Aviation

Inspecting the landing gear of a P-40 fighter jet in 1940. During World War II, Ford Motor Company built more than 8,600 B-24 Liberator bombers.

Hitting Soy Plastic Bumper

Ever eager to prove the benefits of new technology, Henry Ford takes a powerful swing at a soy plastic trunk panel to demonstrate its resiliency in 1941.

Ford, Edison, Firestone on Step

Always in good company, here Henry Ford is catching up with Thomas Edison and Harvey Firestone.

Henry Ford and Charles Lindberg

Charles Lindberg and Henry Ford sharing a conversation.

Taking a Breather

At first glance, Henry Ford looks quite relaxed in this shot, however closer inspection reveals his ever-present expression of determination.

1945 Portrait

In his 83 years, Henry Ford earned every accolade awarded to him. The energy, creativity and undying curiosity that took him so far continues to encourage people to demand more of themselves even to this day.