Each day we highlight one of the 36 finalists leading up to the April 8 announcement of the Minnesota Book Awards, presented by Education Minnesota. Today we feature 2017 Minnesota Nonfiction finalist:
The Ford Century in Minnesota by Brian McMahon
Published by: University of Minnesota Press
Category Sponsor: Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
In 1903, before the Ford Motor Company was even incorporated, Stephen Tenvoorde signed a contract to sell “Fordmobiles” at his bicycle shop in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Four generations later, the Tenvoorde family still operates what is now the oldest Ford dealership in the world. Brian McMahon chronicles how the fortunes of the company and the state became intertwined during that century. First-person accounts of more than 40 retired auto workers detail experiences of working at Ford Motor Company—from the early years in Minneapolis to the final hours of the Twin Cities Assembly Plant in St. Paul. McMahon documents the company’s transformation—through the Depression, World War II, women joining the workforce, globalization, outsourcing, the closing of the plant, and more.
Photo courtesy of Minnesota Historical Society
About the Author:
Brian McMahon, a trained architect, has lectured and written extensively on industry, urban history, and architecture and has developed and designed several exhibits for museums and galleries in New York and Minnesota.
Rave Reviews:
“Solidly based on 18 years of research, this handsome, well-written and serious hardbound tome transcends the “local history” category… the book will provide a much greater understanding of the incredibly complicated and ever-changing environment in which American cars were built in the 20th century.” –speedreaders.info
“Ironically, Henry Ford, who famously stated that “History is bunk,” is the focus of this riveting history. The issues that affected the establishment and eventual end of the Ford plant in Saint Paul remain relevant: the often shortsighted incentives governments offer businesses; the importance of alternative sources of energy; the role of automation in the fate of labor. An important book.” – MN Book Awards judge
Photo courtesy of the Tenvoorde family
Beyond the Book:
Article: “New book explores Minnesota’s unique role in the Ford Motor Company,” by Amy Goetzman, Minnpost
Audio: “Henry Ford’s influence in Minnesota,” MPR
Audio: Minnesota Access Online Interview with Brian McMahon