It would be easy to walk past this building and miss the history so stop by and enjoy the early…read more1900's architecture. There's even a plaque!
The plaque reads, "Cadillac-Chrysler Building. Built in 1919. This building, designed by Wm. A. Balsch, Architects, was built by Cadillac Automobile Company of Saint Louis when it outgrew its building at 2920-22 Locust Street. The dealership became Oliver Cadillac in 1927, and remained here through 1930."
"During the time this building was a Cadillac dealership, Cadillac entered the "Classic Car" era and Cadillac sales doubled as its wheelbases grew, up to 152 inches in length on some models. Syncromesh transmissions and four wheel, vacuum assisted brakes were introduced and its V-8 motor grew to 353 cubic inches with 96 horsepower. By 1920, an optional, 452 cubic inch V-16 motor, producing 185 horsepower was available."
"In 1927, Cadillac introduced the LaSalle, promoted as a "Companion Car to Cadillac". With Cadillac like quality, but slightly smaller , on a 125 inch wheelbase and with a smaller V-8 motor, the LaSalle was sold in Cadillac showrooms, until it was replaced by the Cadillac Model 61, in 1941."
"From 1932 through 1948, this building houses the L.M. Stewart, Inc. Chrysler-Plymouth dealership. Chryslers ranged from upper middle price cars, to its Imperial model, which were direct competitors of Cadillac. In 1934, Chrysler introduced the Airflow, a marketing disappointment despite its revolutionary design and construction improvements, including the first American car with unitized construction."
"This Plaque Dedicated By The Horseless Carriage Club of Missouri and Hilliker Corporation."
[Review 14441 overall, 1767 of 2020, number 75 in Missouri.]