The Ford Model T, introduced by Henry Ford in 1908, marked a revolution in the automobile industry. Built at the Piquette Avenue plant in Detroit, the initial production was limited, with only 11 cars made in the first month. The high demand led to the opening of a new plant in Highland Park in 1910, where the moving assembly line was introduced, drastically reducing the assembly time from 12 hours to just 93 minutes by 1914.

The Model T was renowned for its affordability, initially priced at $850, but eventually dropping to under $300, making it accessible to the average American worker. The car featured a 4-cylinder motor, capable of reaching speeds up to 45 mph, and innovative controls that left the driver’s hands free to steer.

Ford’s iconic statement, “Any customer can have a car painted any color that he wants so long as it is black,” became a hallmark of the Model T after 1913 when black paint was found to dry faster, improving production efficiency.

By the time production ceased in 1927, over 15 million Model Ts had been built, earning it the title of the “Car of the Century.” The Model T not only transformed the automobile industry but also had a profound impact on American society.

Model T – Catalog #30

This Pen & Ink drawing by Maggie LaNoue is available as cards and prints.  It is part of the Nostalgia series.