Firestone-Columbus (United States) - AllCarIndex

Firestone-Columbus was an American automobile manufacturer that operated from 1909 to 1915, based in Columbus, Ohio. The company originated from the Columbus Buggy Company, which had been producing electric vehicles and high-wheelers since 1903 and 1907, respectively. In 1909, the company introduced a new model featuring conventional-sized wheels, named after its president, Clinton DeWitt Firestone.

Initially, the Firestone-Columbus offered a single body style known as the "Baby Tonneau," a small tourer built on a 110-inch (2791 mm) wheelbase and powered by a 35-horsepower four-cylinder engine. Over the years, the product range expanded to include various models such as runabouts, limousines, and a family car, with wheelbases extending up to 130 inches (3299 mm) and engine options ranging from 20/25 to 45 horsepower. The company adopted a unique approach to model updates, opting not to follow annual changes; instead, they implemented modifications as needed based on daily meetings among the directors.

In 1913, Firestone-Columbus introduced a more powerful 60-horsepower six-cylinder car. However, the company faced financial difficulties and declared bankruptcy the same year. It was subsequently reorganized under the leadership of Charles A. Finnegan from the E.R. Thomas Company. Despite speculation about the potential production of the Thomas Flyer in Ohio, this did not materialize. By May 1915, the factory was sold, marking the end of production for both the Columbus Electric and Firestone-Columbus vehicles.