Company overview
White Motor Company began as a manufacturer of bicycles, sewing machines, and steam cars in 1900. The company’s early success was driven by Rollin White's innovative steam generator design, leading to the production of the first White automobiles. By 1905, a separation occurred between the automobile and sewing machine divisions due to growth. White produced steam cars until 1911, transitioning to gasoline-powered vehicles. During World War I, White supplied heavy machinery for military use and became a leading truck manufacturer in the United States, producing over 10 percent of all trucks. The company expanded its operations through acquisitions including Sterling, Autocar, REO and Diamond T in the 1950s. White produced buses for National Parks, beginning with the Model 706 in 1935. The company’s culture evolved under leadership, including Robert Fager Black, who focused on employee relations and wartime production. Financial difficulties led to bankruptcy in 1980, with assets acquired by Volvo and later AGCO. White’s legacy continued through the creation of WhiteGMC, a joint venture with General Motors.
