Classic Car Wiki

Introduction to Graham

The Graham car company, later known as Graham-Paige, was one of the more innovative and design-conscious American automakers of the early 20th century. Though it only existed as a passenger car manufacturer from 1927 to 1940, Graham left a lasting impression through engineering advancements, distinctive styling, and bold marketing. The company was founded by the three Graham brothers—Joseph, Robert, and Ray—who were originally truck manufacturers before entering the passenger car business through a partnership with the Paige-Detroit Motor Car Company.

Origins: The Graham Brothers

Early Truck Manufacturing

The Graham brothers were already successful industrialists by the time they entered the car business. In the early 1920s, they began building trucks using Dodge engines and frames, under the name Graham Brothers Trucks. Their vehicles were well-regarded for their toughness and reliability. The Dodge Motor Company eventually took notice and bought out Graham Brothers in 1925, effectively merging their truck line into Dodge’s operations.

Acquisition of Paige-Detroit

With proceeds from the Dodge sale, the brothers turned to passenger cars. In 1927, they purchased the Paige-Detroit Motor Car Company, which was then a struggling but historic automaker. The newly formed company was named Graham-Paige Motors Corporation. While the “Paige” name remained on vehicles for a short time, it was quickly dropped in favor of “Graham.”

The Rise of Graham-Paige

First Models and Market Success

The first cars produced under the Graham-Paige name debuted in 1928. They were well-built, stylish, and priced competitively. Engines ranged from six to eight cylinders, and early models gained a reputation for reliability and solid performance. In its first full year, Graham-Paige sold more than 70,000 cars—an impressive feat for a newcomer. The company even fielded vehicles in racing and endurance events, enhancing its performance image.

Luxury Appeal and Engineering Innovations

Graham cars were often marketed as more luxurious than their price suggested. Interiors were well-appointed, and the company invested heavily in new engine and suspension designs. They offered models with features like hydraulic brakes and high-compression engines ahead of many competitors. By 1930, Graham-Paige had earned a solid spot among the mid-range car manufacturers in the U.S.

The Impact of the Great Depression

Economic Downturn and Strategy Shift

Like many automakers, Graham was hit hard by the stock market crash of 1929 and the ensuing Great Depression. Sales declined sharply in the early 1930s, prompting the company to scale back and refine its product line. The focus shifted to efficient, lower-cost models that could appeal to a depressed market while maintaining the company’s design and performance standards.

Introduction of the “Blue Streak”

In 1932, Graham launched the “Blue Streak” model, which is widely considered one of the most influential American cars of the decade. Styled by Amos Northup, the Blue Streak broke away from traditional upright designs with a more streamlined, flowing body. It featured innovations such as concealed radiator grilles, skirted fenders, and a lower stance—elements that would be widely imitated in the years to come. The car was also technically advanced, with a rigid “banjo” frame for better handling.

Key Models of the 1930s

Graham 8 Supercharger

In 1934, Graham introduced one of the earliest supercharged production cars: the Graham 8 Supercharger. It used a centrifugal supercharger to boost power output, providing enhanced performance without increasing engine displacement. This feature gave Graham a technological edge over many competitors and was offered at a relatively affordable price.

1936-1937 Graham Crusader and Cavalier

As the mid-1930s progressed, Graham introduced a revised range of cars under the names Crusader, Cavalier, and Custom. These models offered a balance of styling, performance, and affordability. By this point, Graham’s supercharged engines had become a signature feature, and the cars continued to be praised for their engineering and ride quality.

The Spirit of Innovation: “Sharknose” Design

1938 “Spirit of Motion”

Graham’s most radical design came in 1938 with the launch of the “Spirit of Motion” models, popularly known as the “Sharknose” Grahams. Once again designed by Amos Northup, these cars featured a deeply raked grille, swooping lines, and art deco styling. The look was daring and polarizing; while some praised it as futuristic and beautiful, others found it bizarre. The slogan “Spirit of Motion” referred to the car’s appearance of speed even at rest.

Sales Struggles Despite Design Boldness

Unfortunately, the advanced styling of the Sharknose failed to win over enough buyers. It was perhaps too ahead of its time, and the economic climate still made buyers cautious. Sales declined further, and Graham’s financial position worsened despite the car’s technological merits and performance.

Partnership with Hupmobile

The Cord Connection

In an attempt to revitalize operations, Graham partnered with the Hupmobile company in 1939 to produce a new line of cars using the striking body of the defunct Cord 810/812, a front-wheel-drive car designed by Gordon Buehrig. Graham modified the body for rear-wheel drive and called the resulting model the “Hollywood.” Hupmobile sold a similar version under the Skylark name.

The Hollywood and Final Passenger Cars

The Hollywood was a beautiful and modern car by any standard. It retained many of the Cord’s design cues such as the hidden headlights and clean, aerodynamic profile. Available with both standard and supercharged six-cylinder engines, it was one of the most stylish cars of 1940. However, production was limited due to financial constraints and lack of dealer support.

Exit from Automobile Manufacturing

World War II and Shift to War Production

Like many manufacturers, Graham halted automobile production in 1940 as the U.S. began ramping up for World War II. The company switched to military manufacturing, including aircraft and vehicle parts. This kept the company afloat during the war but marked the end of its passenger car production.

Postwar Repositioning and the End

After the war, Graham chose not to return to automobile manufacturing. Instead, the company was restructured as Graham-Paige Corporation and eventually shifted into real estate and corporate holdings. In 1962, the company—by then far removed from its automotive roots—was renamed Madison Square Garden Corporation after acquiring the famed New York sports venue.

Legacy of Graham

Styling and Engineering Contributions

Graham’s legacy lies in its boldness. It introduced groundbreaking designs like the Blue Streak and Sharknose, pushing the boundaries of car styling. Technologically, its use of superchargers in mass-market vehicles was pioneering, and it continually sought to stand out in a crowded marketplace with innovation and flair.

Collector and Historical Value

Today, Graham automobiles are rare and highly prized by collectors. The Blue Streak and Sharknose models are particularly admired for their styling and historical significance, while the Hollywood retains appeal for its Cord-based design. Enthusiast clubs and museums preserve the memory of Graham’s contributions to American automotive history.

Conclusion

The Graham car company exemplifies the spirit of American automotive ingenuity during the interwar years. From its bold designs to its engineering firsts, Graham carved a unique path through an era dominated by larger players. Though its production lifespan was relatively short, its impact on car design and innovation was anything but minor. The name Graham may no longer appear on grilles, but its influence is forever embedded in the evolution of automotive design and technology.