Another reason to like Hudson?

RL Chilton
RL Chilton Administrator, Member
edited November -1 in HUDSON
I'm probably a little slow on the draw here, but I just finished reading, Roy D. Chapin: The Man Behind The Hudson Motor Company, by JC Long (thank you Alex Burr for the copy!).

What a fine book! I'm so glad this got re-printed and is available again. It was originally written in '45 and privately published with limited supply (Mr. Chapin's widow personally distributed). A very fine look into the man who was the driving force behind our favorite marque.

Most surprising to me was that while the HMCC was the means to the man's finances, it really was not what defined him. His civic duties and contributions to this country in various government capacities (often dealing within the motor industry) during the first quarter of the 20th century was really the defining root of the man. Additionally, he possessed many character qualities that are, and were much admired (even by his competitors)-- a fine role model, even today.

As if I didn't have enough affection for Hudson all ready, Mr. Chapin's overall accomplishments make me that much prouder to be a part of such a great heritage.

Highly recommended reading for any automotive enthusiast, particularly HUDNUTS!

Last book on my list is John Conde's book, but every time I find a copy, it seems to be around $100.00 or so, and I just haven't taken the plunge to get one (out of print). If anyone would like to rent one for say a month, I'd really like to finish my book list concerning Hudsons.

Comments

  • RL Chilton
    RL Chilton Administrator, Member
    Ken U-Tx wrote:
    Russell, I have the Conde book, and the Don Butler book. I also have the old Langworth "Hudson, the postwar Years". Maybe I can bring em down some weekend. Finished the spring semester at TSTC waco, start the summer session on May 10th.

    Ken-

    Thanks for the offer. I have the other books, just missing the Conde one.
    I'll send you an e-mail as I have wanted to talk to you soon.
  • Aaron D. IL
    Aaron D. IL Senior Contributor
    I too recently reading the Roy Chapin book and it has a lot of little known details about the man. A real fascinating guy. One thing that caught my eye in the book was a description about a trip to europe he took not long after HMCC was formed to look into the European auto industry and even his serious considerations about taking the comapny into the aviation business. (which they sort of did do during WW2 and a bit after into Korea)



    Also seems Hudson's fortunes stayed good as long as he was at the helm as evidenced by his return to HMCC after a stint working for the federal Gov't during the depression. A post which he accepted no pay for so yeah he had a sense of civic duty.
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