Garford (United States) - AllCarIndex

The Garford Company was established in 1903 in Elyria, Ohio, by Arthur L. Garford, who served as the president of the Federal Manufacturing Company, a significant supplier of components to the automotive industry. Initially, Garford focused on producing complete chassis, which were supplied to various manufacturers, including Ardsley, Cleveland, Gaeth, Rainier, and Studebaker. The partnership with Studebaker became particularly important, as Garford enabled the company to enter the gasoline automobile market in 1904, transitioning from its previous focus on electric vehicles and horse-drawn carriages.

In 1907, Garford introduced its own line of automobiles, launching the 30hp Model A and the 40hp Model B. These vehicles were positioned as luxury models, priced at $3,500 and $4,000, respectively. However, production of these models ceased at the end of the 1908 season, as Garford redirected its efforts to fulfill orders for Studebaker. Following Studebaker's acquisition of E.M.F. production in 1909, Garford resumed manufacturing cars under its own name.

In January 1911, Garford unveiled a new 40hp four-cylinder model at the New York Automobile Show, followed by a 50hp six-cylinder model in 1912. One notable model from 1913 featured full electric lighting and starting, and was referred to as the "One Eyed Garford" due to its unique design, which included a single headlamp recessed in the radiator header tank. The Garford Company was absorbed by Willys Overland in 1912, and production of automobiles was discontinued after the 1913 season. However, the truck division remained independent and continued operations until 1933.