Explore the life events of the man behind the Model T. 

Henry Ford's son, Edsel Ford, was born on November 6, 1893. He was Henry and Clara Ford's only child.

Henry's son Edsel is born

Henry Ford was born on July 30, 1863, on a farm in Wayne County, Michigan. His parents were William Ford, an Irish immigrant, and Mary Ford, who had emigrated from Belgium. Growing up on the farm, Henry was curious about machinery and often took apart and reassembled the farm's equipment. His early experiences with machinery would shape his future career and passion for engineering.

Henry is Born in Dearborn, Michigan

After being introduced by a mutual friend in 1885, they quickly became engaged and married.

Henry marries Clara

In 1891, Henry Ford got his first job as an engineer at the Edison Illuminating Company in Detroit. There, he learned about electricity and machines. This job helped him become a better inventor and sparked his interest in making cars. Working with Thomas Edison inspired him to think creatively and pursue his dreams.

Henry gets a job at the Edison Illuminating Company

In 1896, Henry Ford built his first car, called the Quadricycle. It was a small vehicle made of wood and metal, with four wheels and a simple engine. The Quadricycle could go about 20 miles per hour! This car marked the start of Ford’s journey in the automobile industry, showing his talent for inventing and his dream of creating vehicles for everyone.

Henry Builds the Quadricycle

Ford Motor Company becomes increasingly successful, producing cars like the Model A and Model K. The company begins to grow as demand for automobiles rises.

Ford Motor Company Growth

Ford introduces the moving assembly line at the Highland Park plant in Michigan. This drastically reduces the time needed to build a car, making mass production possible and lowering the cost of the Model T.

Assembly Line Innovation

The Ford Motor Company introduces the Model T, also known as the "Tin Lizzie." This vehicle is revolutionary because it is affordable, durable, and simple to repair, making it accessible to the average America

Model T Introduction

Henry Ford announces the $5 workday, doubling the average wage for workers at the time. This move helps reduce employee turnover, increase productivity, and improve workers’ quality of life.

$5 Workday

Henry Ford becomes a well-known public figure, and his ideas on business and labor start to influence industries beyond automobiles.

Ford's Influence Grows

After nearly 20 years of production, Ford discontinues the Model T. It has sold over 15 million units, but Ford shifts focus to the newer Model A.

End of the Model T Era:

In 1903, Henry Ford founded the Ford Motor Company. He wanted to make cars that were affordable for everyday people. With a small group of investors, Ford started producing cars using new techniques that made them faster and cheaper to build. This company would go on to change the way people traveled and make cars available to many families across America.

Henry Starts the Ford Motor Company

Henry Ford establishes the Ford Foundation, a charitable organization that would later become one of the largest and most influential foundations in the 

Ford Foundation Established

Ford shifts production to support World War II efforts. His factories are retooled to produce military vehicles, planes, and weapons, playing a key role in the war effort.

World War II Production

Henry Ford steps down from active management of Ford Motor Company. His grandson, Henry Ford II, takes over as president, marking a new era for the company.

Henry Ford II Takes Over

Henry Ford passes away on April 7, 1947, at the age of 83. His legacy lives on through his revolutionary impact on the automobile industry and the methods of mass production.

Standards for Henry Ford Timeline

College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework