Chadwick (United States) - AllCarIndex

Chadwick was an American automobile manufacturer that operated from 1904 to 1916. Founded by Lee Sherman Chadwick in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the company initially began as the Fairmount Engineering Co. in 1904. Chadwick, who had previously invented an advanced laundry machine and worked for the Boston Ball Bearing Co., transitioned into automobile manufacturing after assembling his first car from parts he acquired following the collapse of the Searchmont company.

The early Chadwick vehicles featured 32-horsepower four-cylinder engines and chain drive systems, with the first production models emerging in 1904. These cars were priced at $4,000 and were available in a seven-seater tourer body. The company produced a limited number of vehicles, with 25 units made in 1905 and 30 in 1906. In 1906, Chadwick introduced a larger model with a 40/45-horsepower engine, which sold for $5,000. The peak production year for Chadwick was 1908, during which 38 cars were delivered.

In 1907, Chadwick launched the Great Six, a significant model featuring an 11.58-liter six-cylinder engine that produced 75 horsepower at 1,100 rpm. This model was notable for its top speed of over 80 mph (130 km/h) and the innovative use of an enclosed aluminum case for the driving chains. The Great Six was also distinguished by the introduction of a supercharger, which was the first of its kind, although it was not widely successful in racing. Despite the high prices—ranging from $5,500 for a tourer to $6,500 for a semi-racer—Chadwick cars performed well in competitions.

However, the company's success was short-lived. In 1910, the Light Foundry Co. terminated its agreement with Chadwick due to slow payments, forcing him to consider establishing his own foundry. Disagreements with his backers over the direction of the company led to Chadwick's departure in 1911. Although production continued at the Pottstown facility, output steadily declined, and by 1916, only seven cars were delivered. The name Great Chadwick Six was eventually dropped, and the remaining models were referred to as Model 19. Chadwick's legacy in the automotive industry was marked by its innovative engineering and limited production.