Studebaker, 1984-1985
A Guide to the Collection of Oral History Interviews at Indiana University
Bloomington
Finding aid prepared by the staff of the Center for
the Study of History and Memory with a grant from the National Endowment for the
Humanities Division of Preservation and Access, 2000-2002
Overview of the Collection
Repository
Indiana University Center for Documentary Research and Practice
Indiana University
Franklin Hall 0030B
601 E. Kirkwood Avenue
Bloomington, IN 47405
Phone: 812/855-2856
Fax: 812/855-0002
E-mail: ohrc@indiana.edu
https://cdrp.mediaschool.indiana.edu
Creator
Indiana University Center for the
Study of History and Memory
TitleStudebaker, 1984-1985
Project No.
ohrc097
Interviews
50 interviews. Audiotapes, transcripts, and collateral
materials.
Physical Location
Interviews are housed in Franklin Hall, Room 0030B. Copies of interview transcripts are also held by the IU Libraries University
Archives.
Contact archives@indiana.edu for more information. For other locations housing the interviews
from this project, please contact the Center for Documentary Research and Practice office.
Language
Materials are in English
Abstract
This project deals with the Studebaker Plant in South Bend,
Indiana primarily between the 1930's and the 1960's, when it closed. The
interviewees are employees from all levels, but the majority discuss the
blue-collar aspect. They primarily discuss working conditions, the Local 5
union, management, ethnicities, women, World War II and its effects, and the
decline and closing of the Plant.
Scope and Content Note
This collection contains fifty interviews conducted over two years. The interviews range from 30 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes.
All interviews consist of audio tapes and typed transcripts.
Administrative Information
Acquisition Information
Oral history interviews conducted by the Indiana University Center for the
Study of History and Memory from 1968 to the present, with particular focus on the
history of twentieth-century America and the Midwest.
Usage Restrictions
The archive of the Center for Documentary Research and Practice at Indiana University is open
to the use of researchers. Copies of transcript pages are available only when such copies
are permitted by the deed of gift. Scholars must honor any
restrictions the interviewee placed on the use of the interview. Since some of our earlier
(pre-computer) transcripts do not exist in final form, any editing marks in a transcript
(deletions, additions, corrections) are to be quoted as marked. Audio files may not be copied for
patrons unless the deed of gift permits it, and a transcript is unavailable for that
interview. The same rules of use that apply to a transcript apply to the audio interview.
Interviews may not be reproduced in full for any public use, but excerpted quotes may be
used as long as researchers fully cite the data in their research, including accession
number, interview date, interviewee's and interviewer's name, and page(s).
Preferred Citation
[interviewee first name last name] interview, by [interviewer first name last
name], [interview date(s)], [call number], [project name], Center for Documentary Research and Practice, Indiana University,
Bloomington, [page number(s) or tape
number and side if no transcript; if digital audio and no transcript, cite time when quote occurs].
Interview List
Interviewee
Anderson, Jane
June 28,
1984
Call Number
84-017
Physical Description
37 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 1 hour 30 minutes; index;
photograph of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Scope and Content Note
Jane Anderson, born on August 1, 1917, discusses her early
employment before going to Studebaker for higher wages. She worked at
Studebaker as a secretary for both the aviation and the automotive plants from
the early 1940's until its final days in the 1970's. Anderson expresses her
enjoyment of the job, her displeasure with the Packard merger, and her initial
shock at learning that the company would close. She describes the relationship
between Studebaker and the community. Anderson also discusses the work of
sorting through records following the company's close as well as the pension
problems.
Access Status
Open
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Packard Motor Car Company
-
-
Occupation Names
- secretary
-
-
Personal Names
- Gallagher, Gerald T.
- Warren, Margery
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Packard merger
- pensions
- phase-out period
- Plant closing
- records disposal
- union leaders
Interviewee
Anderson, Jane
July 4,
1985
Call Number
85-056
16 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 60 minutes; index; photographs
of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Jane Anderson speaks of her time as a secretary at Studebaker.
She recalls the phase-out period of the company, being one of the few employees
to remain until the very end, shifting through files, dealing with pensions,
and so on. Anderson also discusses the roles of women employed at Studebaker
during her own employment.
-
Keywords
-
-
Occupation Names
- secretary
-
-
Place Names
- Basking Ridge, New Jersey
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- pensions
- phase-out period
- women's roles
Interviewee
Baum, Helen
July 27,
1985
Call Number
85-064
Physical Description
24 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 45 minutes; index; photographs
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee, history of the Mary Ann Club
written by interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Helen Baum, born on July 30, 1908, recalls all of her
experiences with Studebaker in both Indiana and California, through
transferring to stay with her husband during World War II, and through having
been laid off and returning. She discusses her sexist boss as well as the
decline of the Plant as it continually combined departments. Baum discusses the
Mary Ann club, what it did, and stills does today. She mentions that her
husband also worked at Studebaker for a time, and that most Studebaker
employees drove a Studebaker.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- Maywood, California
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- layoffs
- Mary Ann Club
Interviewee
Borsodi, Joe E.
July 2,
1985
Call Number
85-051
Physical Description
32 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 45 minutes; index; photograph
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Joe E. Borsodi, born on June 2, 1909, mentions that his father,
an immigrant from Hungary, worked at Studebaker before him. He discusses the
various positions that he held both before and after World War I, the layoffs
that occurred both during the Great Depression and at the closing of the Plant,
and the union and why it was important. Borsodi discusses being one of the
"Dirty dozen", one of the last twelve employees to work at Studebaker. Mrs.
Borsodi (the wife) also made a few comments throughout the interview including
that her own mother worked at Studebaker at one point and how the community
felt about the closing.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- United Auto Workers, Local 5
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Dirty Dozen
- layoffs
- Plant closing
- plant eight
- unions
Interviewee
Brodzinski, Harry
August 8,
1984
Call Number
84-020
Physical Description
64 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 90 minutes; index; photograph
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Harry Brodzinski, born on August 5, 1910, discusses the various
positions he held through his years at Studebaker and how he move up in the
company. He mentions that his father, a Polish immigrant, worked there for a
time. Brodzinski discusses the changing economy over the years and how it
effected Studebaker as well as the union and its many problems. He talks a
great deal about the factors which brought about Studebaker's decline including
management, the failing market, and labor relations.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Kaiser Jeep Corporation
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- economy
- plant decline
- unions
Interviewee
Brown, Clara
August 27,
1984
Call Number
84-022
Physical Description
67 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 90 minutes; index; photograph
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Clara Brown, born on April 8, 1893, discusses her work
experiences and the changes that occurred throughout her time as a secretary at
Studebaker. She mentions that several members of her family also held jobs at
Studebaker. She remembers relationships between colleagues, the amount of work
she had, the salary she received, and her pension. Brown also recalls the
differences that became apparent from decade to decade including World War I,
the Great Depression, World War II, and the organization of the union. Brown
discusses the decline of Studebaker, and the shock she felt at its closing.
-
Keywords
-
-
Occupation Names
- secretary
-
-
Personal Names
- Ewing, Jack
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- pensions
- plant decline
- receivership
- salaries
- unions
Interviewee
Burnett, Raymond, Jr.
September 25,
1984
Call Number
84-008
Physical Description
18 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 30 minutes; index; photograph
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Raymond Burnett Jr., born on January 23, 1928, remembers that
his grandfather, father, and brother all worked at Studebaker. Burnett
discusses the various jobs he did both as a laborer and as a salaried
personell. He expresses the loyalty he felt for Studebaker and speaks about the
factors which may have brought about Studebaker's decline and eventual
closure.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Studebaker Corporation
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- plant closing
- plant decline
Interviewee
Bush, Hugh; Bush, Irene
March 29
1985
Call Number
85-042
Physical Description
26 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 60 minutes; index; photographs
of the interviewees, biographical data of the interviewees
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Hugh (born on July 6, 1918) and Irene (born on March 17, 1916)
Bush discuss their experiences as Studebaker workers. Irene recalls that her
father worked for Studebaker. Both Hugh and Irene discuss getting jobs at
Studebaker and the family orientation within the company. They describe their
work as well as what the company had to offer its employees. The Bushes speak
about the changes that occurred over the years at Studebaker and the factors
which may have brought on the Plant's decline including the union and
production and marketing problems.
-
Keywords
-
-
Personal Names
- Loewy, Raymond
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Mary Ann Club
- plant decline
Interviewee
Crynes, Eugene
August 25,
1985
Call Number
85-048
Physical Description
19 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 43 minutes; index; photographs
of the interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Eugene Crynes, Born on April 4, 1915, speaks about moving to
South Bend, Indiana in search of work in the 1930's. He talks about the odd
jobs he held before getting a position at Studebaker. Crynes discusses the
different positions he held at Studebaker, its family atmosphere, and the
changes the company underwent during and after the World War II years. Crynes
also discusses the closing of Studebaker and the various jobs he held
afterwards.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- automobile testing
- Plant closing
Interviewee
Danch, Elmer
September 25,
1984
Call Number
84-007
Physical Description
60 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 120 minutes; index;
biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Elmer Danch, born on December 12, 1913, recalls that his father,
a Hungarian immigrant, and brothers worked at Studebaker. Danch discusses his
employment at Studebaker as an editor of the newsletter, he discusses the image
they wanted to portray, as well as the family orientation of the company. Danch
talks about the changes that occurred at Studebaker over the years especially
following World War II, the factors which may have brought about the Plant's
decline, and the effects its closing had on the community. He also discusses
the Avanti, the last car styled by Studebaker as well as the Studebaker Museum.
Danch further talks about his work at Da-Lite Screen Co. following the closing
of Studebaker.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Da-Lite Screen Company
- Ford Motor Company
-
Studebaker
News
-
-
Occupation Names
- editor
- journalist
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- car shows
- Packard merger
- plant closing
- plant decline
- Studebaker Museum
Interviewee
Drabecki, Christine
July 25,
1985
Call Number
85-046
Physical Description
17 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 53 minutes; index; photographs
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Christine Drabecki, born on November 21, 1913, recalls that her
parents were Polish immigrants and that she grew up in a very large family.
Tight times forced her to go to work at an early age. She discusses the various
jobs she held prior to Studebaker as well as the different positions she held
within Studebaker due to a system called bumping. Drabecki talks about the
union and the women who were involved , as well as the social atmosphere within
the company. She also speaks a great deal about her personal life.
-
Keywords
-
-
Personal Names
- Wilson, Berle
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- factory bumping
- unions
Interviewee
Drabecki, Christine; Dzierla, Louise; Grayzck, Theresa;
Nowicki, Mary; Schoonaert, Mary; VanDaele, Maryanne
July 25,
1985
Call Number
85-065
Physical Description
39 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours; index; group
photograph of interviewees, biographical data of each interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
The women all began working for Studebaker in the 1940's, many
of their spouses worked there as well. Each woman recalls the various jobs they
did. Louse Dzierla discusses being the first woman to work on motors at the
aviation plant. The women discuss the differences that occurred during and
after World War II within the company and among the laborers. They talk about
the layoffs that occurred at Studebaker before and after the war and at the
Plant's closing, as well as 'call backs' to return to work. They discuss the
union, its activities, and female involvement, and they discuss juggling a job
and a home as a women. The women also speak of the closing of Studebaker and
the effects it had on them and others.
-
Keywords
-
-
Personal Names
- Nash, Alice
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- factory bumping
- factory call backs
- layoffs
- pensions
- unions
- women's roles
Interviewee
Dundar, Ed G.
July 2,
1985
Call Number
85-050
Physical Description
49 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 1 hour 45 minutes; index;
photographs of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Ed G. Dunbar, born on July 3, 1924, recalls that several of his
family members had held jobs at Studebaker. He discusses coming to work at
Studebaker after the decision to close had already occurred to help with the
phase-out and the divestments. He discusses all the traveling his position
called for and the many subsidiaries involved with Studebaker. Dunbar talks
about working with the Dirty Dozen, the last employees at Studebaker. He
discusses further divestments he worked in later, when the company merged to
become Studebaker-Worthington. Dunbar also talks about the jobs he's held since
leaving the company.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Curtiss-Wright Corporation
- Studebaker Corporation
- Studebaker-Worthington Corporation
-
-
Personal Names
- Pratt, Charles
-
-
Place Names
- Canada
- New York, New York
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- aviation plant
- Dirty Dozen
- divestments
- phase-out period
- subsidiaries
Interviewee
Ewing, Byron A., "Jack"
August 27,
1984
Call Number
84-024
Physical Description
26 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours; index; photograph of
interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Byron A. Ewing (Jack), born on January 30, 1896, talks a little
bit about his life, serving in the United States Army Navy, and the job that
brought him to South Bend, Indiana. He discusses the various jobs that he held
at Studebaker before and after a layoff until becoming a foreman. Ewing
discusses the changes that occurred at Studebaker from decade to decade
including the Great Depression, World War II, and the union. Ewing also
discusses the mergers Studebaker was involved in towards its end as well as
what may have contributed to the Plant's decline.
-
Keywords
-
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- business mergers
- plant decline
- unions
Interviewee
Fox, Lester
July 1, 1985;
July 3 1985
Call Number
85-045
Physical Description
59 pages; 4 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 3 hours 20 minutes; index;
photographs of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Lester Fox, born on August 8, 1928, talks about coming to South
Bend, Indiana in search of a job, he describes different positions he held at
Studebaker before and after serving in the United States Army. Fox discusses
getting involved with the union, becoming increasingly interested in it, and
moving up the ranks within the union. He further discusses the different
struggles and roles the union was involved with including contracts with
management, strikes, and the closing of Studebaker. Fox speaks a great deal
about the closing and his involvement with the workers who had been laid off.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- United Auto Workers
-
-
Personal Names
- Brademas, John
- Egbert, Sherwood
- Reuther, Walter Phillip
-
-
Place Names
- New York, New York
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- 1962 Manpower Development and Training Act
- ethnic groups
- industrial relations
- Packard merger
- Plant closing
-
Studebaker: Less Than a
Promise
- unions
Interviewee
Gadowski, Martha
July 27,
1985
Call Number
85-062
Physical Description
65 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 90 minutes; index;
photographs of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Martha Gadowski, born on June 18, 1893, recalls going to South
Bend, Indiana in search of work and the various jobs she held prior to getting
one at Studebaker. She describes the various jobs she did at Studebaker and
mentions that many family members worked there as well. Gadowski discusses the
union and its activities and the social atmosphere on the job . Gadowski speaks
a great deal about her personal life throughout this time.
-
Keywords
-
-
Personal Names
- Gundeck, Walter
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- aviation plant
- unions
Interviewee
Hagenbush, Robert
July 24,
1984
Call Number
84-005
Physical Description
40 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 60 minutes; index; photocopied
photograph of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee, business card of
interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Robert "Bob" Hagenbush, born on September 9, 1923, states that
many of his own family members as well as the families of much of his town
worked at Studebaker. He talks about the different jobs he did at Studebaker,
getting into the union and the bargaining committee. Hagenbush discusses the
changes in the company following World War II as well as the issues the union
faced including the movement from piecework to day work, right wing and left
wing ideals. He discusses the strikes and the inevitable closing of Studebaker.
His wife also makes a few comments throughout the interview.
-
Keywords
-
-
Personal Names
- Ogden, Bill
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Plant closing
- strikes
- unions
Interviewee
Handley, Donald; Zielinski, Marion
October 7,
1984
Call Number
84-014
Physical Description
85 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours; index; photographs
of interviewees, biographical data of each interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Donald Handley, born on October 6, 1927; his wife; and Marion
Zielinski, born on August 14, 1918, discuss the fact that many of their family
members worked at Studebaker, a common practice. The two men describe various
jobs at Studebaker, the overall attitudes of the workers, and common layoffs.
They discuss the changes in labor that occurred following World War II and the
relationship the community had with the company. They discuss the decline of
Studebaker and the factors which may have contributed to it including lack of
modernization and management problems. The men talk about the closing of
Studebaker and its effects on the former workers such as pension problems. They
also talk about the automobile industry today and how it compares to Studebaker
back then.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- American Motors General
- Ford Motor Company
- General Motors Corporation
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Avanti automobile
- employee attitudes
- factory bumping
- layoffs
- pensions
- Plant closing
- plant decline
- unions
Interviewee
Hesler, Helen T.
August 24,
1985
Call Number
85-053
Physical Description
17 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 45 minutes; index;
biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Helen T. Hesler, born on October 16, 1913, discusses the
different jobs she worked at Studebaker as well as the organization of the
union, joining, and union activities especially strikes. She Talks about the
role of women in the union, attitudes toward women, and juggling work and home.
Hesler describes the changes that took place at Studebaker following World War
II particularly within the labor. force. She also speaks of jobs following the
closing of Studebaker. A friend of Hesler's also makes comments throughout the
interview on the various topics, especially on the role of women.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- unions
- women's roles
Interviewee
Kendziorski, Evelyn B.
July 26,
1985
Call Number
85-060
Physical Description
29 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 50 minutes; index; photographs
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Evelyn B. Kendziorski, born on October 20, 1921, talks about
jobs she held before during and after Studebaker. She talks about her
experience working at Studebaker and about family members and friends that also
worked there. She discusses the social atmosphere among office workers and the
MaryAnn Club for office women. Kendziorski discusses the closing of Studebaker,
how she found out, working during the phase-out period, and the sadness she
still feels that its gone.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Mary Ann Club
- Plant closing
Interviewee
Klausmeyer, Otto
May 11,
1984
Call Number
84-027
Physical Description
49 pages; 3 tapes, 1 7/8 ips; index; biographical data of
interviewee
Interviewer
Bodnar, John
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Otto Klausmeyer, born in 1898, discusses the history of the
Studebaker company from buggies to automobiles and the whole transition. He
describes the different jobs that he did at Studebaker and the changes that
occurred from decade to decade, from the 1920's until the close in the 1960's.
Klausmeyer talks about the many struggles Studebaker went through as an
automobile industry including receiverships, bankruptcy, union issues, bad
management, and corruption. He also discussed the decline of the company, how
he saw the end coming, and what contributed to the downfall.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Ford Motor Company
-
-
Personal Names
- Erskine, Albert Russell
- Fish, Frederick S.
- Hoffman, Paul G.
- Vail, R. A.
-
-
Place Names
- Detroit, Michigan
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- management
- plant decline
- unions
Interviewee
Kowalski, Harry
September 10,
1984
Call Number
84-019
Physical Description
40 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips; index; photograph of
interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Harry Kowalski, born on March 21, 1923, describes various jobs
he did at Studebaker including his part in the union. He discusses union
activities including strikes and grievances. He discusses problems within the
company which may have brought about Studebaker's decline, particularly poor
management and flaws in the product. Kowalski talks about the closing of
Studebaker and the disbelief he, and many co-workers felt when it occurred, and
about what he did following the closing.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- layoffs
- piecework
- Plant closing
- plant decline
- unions
Interviewee
Kowalski, James
September 11,
1984
Call Number
84-023
Physical Description
29 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 60 minutes; index; photograph
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
James Kowalski, born on April 6, 1934, discusses coming into
sales at Studebaker during its time of greatest decline. He discusses the
factors which may have had a part in bringing about the decline including
management problems, lack of modernization, union problems, sales problems.
Kowalski talks about the jobs he held after leaving Studebaker based greatly on
the experience he gained from working at the company. He also talks a little
about the social atmosphere within Studebaker, its relationship with the
community, and the effects of the closing that still linger in South Bend,
Indiana.
-
Keywords
-
-
Personal Names
- Armstrong, Wayne
- Egbert, Stewart
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Plant closing
- plant decline
- Studebaker Managers Club
Interviewee
Kuminecz, Joe
July 23,
1984
Call Number
84-006
Physical Description
23 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 60 minutes; index; photocopied
photograph of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Joe Kuminecz, born on February 1, 1909 in Austrio-Hungary, came
to South Bend, Indiana at a very young age with his family. He states that most
of his family worked at Studebaker, which was very common in the company, and
described the work that he did. Kuminecz talks about the many social events the
atmosphere offered to Studebaker employees. He discusses the beginning of the
union, Local 5, and its growth as well as his involvement especially in dealing
with insurance. Kuminecz speaks of the great quality of Studebaker
automobiles.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- United Auto Workers, Local 5
-
-
Personal Names
- Hupp, George
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- insurance
- unions
Interviewee
Kuminecz, Joe
August 4,
1984
Call Number
84-028
Physical Description
104 pages; 3 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours 45 minutes; index;
photograph of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Joe Kuminecz, born on February 1, 1909, recalls working
alongside family members at Studebaker. He describes various jobs that were
performed, the social atmosphere(s) in the different plants and at different
levels in the workplace as well as out in the community, and the common
layoffs. Kuminecz discusses the changes that occurred at Studebaker during and
after World War II such as the change from piece-work to group work. he speaks
of Studebaker's closing and what the workers faced afterwards. He also talks
about the jobs he held after the closing and compares them to working at
Studebaker.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Anderson Company
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- employee loyalty
- group work
- layoffs
- piecework
- unions
- worker reputation
- World War II
Interviewee
MacMillan, Clifford
May 11,
1984
Call Number
84-013
Physical Description
51 pages; 3 tapes, 17/8 ips, 2 hours 45 minutes; index;
biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Bodnar, John
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Clifford MacMillan, born in 1908, talks about his different
occupations prior to getting a job at Studebaker. He discusses the various
problems the company faced, particularly in the years following World War II,
such as union activities, strikes, and bad management as well as his
involvement. MacMillan describes a number of the jobs that were performed at
Studebaker, both skilled and unskilled. He speaks of the closing of Studebaker,
what led up to it, and the effects it had on its former workers.
-
Keywords
-
-
Personal Names
- Churchill, Harold E.
- Egbert, Sherwood
- Fox, Lester E.
- Hanna, Forrest
- Ogden, Bill
- Vance, Harold
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- management
- Packard merger
- pensions
- Plant closing
- strikes
- unions
Interviewee
Megyesi, Doris; Megyesi, Stephen
August 23,
1984
Call Number
85-052
Physical Description
15 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 37 minutes; index; photographs
of the interviewees
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Stephen Megyesi, born on June 10, 1922; and Doris Megyesi, born
on January 3, 1925, husband and wife, emphasized the family atmosphere at
Studebaker due to the fact that many of their own family members were also
employed there, and that labor relations in general were good. They discuss
working in salaried positions as opposed to labor work. The Megyesi's discuss
the closing of Studebaker, how upsetting it was and the effects it had on the
town of South Bend, Indiana. They also talked about the growing interest in
Studebaker automobiles and the Studebaker Drivers Club of which many former
employees are members.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Studebaker Drivers Club
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- labor relations
- Plant closing
Interviewee
Meszaros, Joe
June 27,
1984
Call Number
84-018
Physical Description
38 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 90 minutes; index;
biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Joe Meszaros, born in 1908, discusses working at Studebaker from
an early age. He describes the various jobs that he did and the working
conditions before and after the union was organized. Meszaros talks about the
changes that occurred within the company following World War II, especially in
the labor force. He discusses the closing of Studebaker, factors that may have
contributed to it, and working afterwards. Meszaros also talks about the great
quality of Studebaker cars.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Plant closing
- seniority
- unions
- World War II
Interviewee
Mucha, Irene
July 25,
1985
Call Number
85-059
Physical Description
18 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 30 minutes; index; photographs
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Irene Mucha, born on December 18, 1913, discusses working at
Studebaker, that many family members also worked there, and the various jobs
she did. Mucha discusses other women working in the plant, juggling home, job,
and motherhood.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- factory bumping
- women's roles
Interviewee
Nemeth, Frank
September 8,
1984
Call Number
84-002
Physical Description
34 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 60 minutes; index; photograph
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Frank Nemeth, born in Hungary on October 24, 1914, emigrated to
Indiana with his family at a very young age. He discusses his life before,
during, and after working at Studebaker along with family members. He describes
each job he did at Studebaker especially dealing with design and layout. Nemeth
talks about the various models of automobile put out by Studebaker. He
discusses the Packard merger, which he referred to as a submerge, and how it
may have facilitated Studebaker's decline. Finally Nemeth discusses the closing
of Studebaker, events leading up to it, worker's thoughts about it, and working
afterwards.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Ford Motor Company
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Packard merger
- Plant closing
Interviewee
Newburn, Odell
July 10, 1984
Call Number
84-026
Physical Description
56 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 1 hour 50 minutes; index;
biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Odell Newburn, born on April 18, 1918, describes the different
jobs he did at Studebaker, how he worked his way up to the positions of
supervisor and steward, and the training he received for those positions which
aided him in the long run. He talks about the family-like atmosphere of
Studebaker with its many social activities as well as many family members
actually working together. Newburn discusses the many problems Studebaker faced
that led to the Plant's decline and subsequent closing such as poor management,
mass production, the Packard merger, and labor issues. He discusses the closing
of Studebaker and the negative effects it had on workers, union leaders, and
the community, some of which still linger.
-
Keywords
-
-
Personal Names
- Hoffman, Paul G.
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- pensions
- Plant closing
- plant decline
- unions
Interviewee
Panzica, Joe
September 11,
1984
Call Number
84-025
Physical Description
25 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 30 minutes; index; photograph
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Joe Panzica, born in 1934, discusses working at Studebaker for a
short time just before it closed down, both in labor and in the office. He
discusses the problems that he witnessed throughout the company among the
workers such as over-employment, theft, and corruption. Panzica talks about
problems within management as well. He further speaks about his work after
leaving Studebaker.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- labor problems
- management
Interviewee
Paskiet, Casmer
September, 24,
1984
Call Number
84-009
Physical Description
60 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 1 hour 45 minutes; index;
photograph of interviewees Studebaker union card, photograph of interviewee,
biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Casmer Paskiet, 1901-1985, started working at a young age, he
describes the different jobs he did both in and outside of working at
Studebaker. He talks about the many changes Studebaker underwent over the years
including the conversion from manufacturing buggies to that of automobiles, the
introduction of the union, and labor changes. He discusses union activities and
his involvement with the union and through that, the corruption of the foremen
that he witnessed. Paskiet talks about the closing of the Studebaker and the
pension problems which occurred as a result.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- foremen
- pensions
- unions
Interviewee
Piechowiak, John M.
October 8,
1984
Call Number
84-015
Physical Description
43 pages; 3 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours 40 minutes; index;
photograph of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
John M. Piechowiak, born on December 26, 1913, describes his
work experiences before, during and after being employed at Studebaker. He
discusses labor problems, especially in the years following World War II when
quality was sacrificed for quantity, and when labor attitudes changed. He
discusses the union, his strong support of it, and his involvement as a chief
steward; as well as union bargaining, contracts, and compromises. Piechowiak
talks about the styling of later Studebaker cars and their good quality. He
discusses what may have contributed to the Plant's decline including bad
leadership and financial difficulties. He also talks about the closing of
Studebaker, how his union involvement prevented him from getting a job in the
area, and what was learned from the closing in such issues as pensions.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- labor problems
- plant closing
- plant decline
- unions
Interviewee
Poulin, Harry
July 25,
1984
Call Number
84-004
Physical Description
48 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours; index; photograph of
interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Harry Poulin, born on November 3, 1913, discusses getting a job
at Studebaker, working his way up in the accounting department, and describes
the work he was involved in. He talks about the social atmosphere within the
office and outside among co-workers as well as the father-son employee base of
the company. Poulin discusses the various mergers Studebaker underwent and the
many changes the company went through over the years. He speaks about the
closing of Studebaker and some of the reasons for it. He also talks about the
phase-out period, when he became involved in Studebaker Corporation working
subsidiaries.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Studebaker Corporation
-
-
Occupation Names
- comptroller
-
-
Personal Names
- Zenzinger, Ted
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- business mergers
- phase-out period
- Plant closing
- World War II
Interviewee
Romine, Otis
September 9,
1984
Call Number
84-001
Physical Description
69 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 1 hour, 50 minutes; index;
photograph of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Otis Romine, born on January 24, 1923, discusses working at
Studebaker, the various jobs he did especially in engineering, and the classes
that were available through the company. He describes the family-like
environment of the workplace as well as the actual family employment at
Studebaker. Romine discusses the changes that occurred throughout Studebaker
following World War II in labor and in management. He discusses the decline of
the Plant and its contributing factors such as finance problems and bad
management. Romine also talks about all that he learned from his work at
Studebaker and his work experiences following the close.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Kaiser Industries
-
-
Personal Names
- Bushong, Harold
- Egbert, Sherwood
- Hoffman, Paul G.
- Loewy, Raymond
- Vance, Harold
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- plant decline
- World War II
Interviewee
Rosenbaum, Frank
August 8,
1984
Call Number
84-010
Physical Description
61 pages; 3 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours 30 minutes; index;
photograph of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Frank Rosenbaum, born on July 12, 1917, talks about his life
before, during and after being employed at Studebaker. He describes each job
that he did at Studebaker, the bumping system of getting jobs, and how he moved
up from hourly pay to salaried positions. He speaks a great deal about his
involvement with the United States Army Air Corps and how that helped him with
and complemented his work at Studebaker and in future employment. He also talks
about his side job as a mechanic, which was a common practice for many workers.
Rosenbaum discusses the labor problems that occurred following World War II,
for which he blames the union's mega-strength and poor management. He
attributes this to the decline and subsequent closing of the plant among other
factors.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Bendix Corporation
- United States Army Air Corps
-
-
Personal Names
- Churchill, Harold E.
- Egbert, Sherwood
- Macmillan, Clifford
- Rosenburg, Anna
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- car dealerships
- labor problems
- management
- management training
- Packard merger
- plant decline
- side jobs
- social activities
- strikes
- unions
Interviewee
Schoonaert, Mary
July 25,
1985
Call Number
85-061
Physical Description
50 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 90 minutes; index;
photographs of interview, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Mary Schoonaert, born on August 28, 1907, talks about growing up
in an ethnic neighborhood as a child of Belgian immigrants. She discusses going
to work at a young age and the jobs she held before going to Studebaker. She
describes her many jobs at Studebaker and the interactions between workers
especially in the sewing room. Schoonaert explains the bumping procedure for
changing jobs and the roles of women within Studebaker and within the home. She
discusses management problems and the subsequent closing of the Plant as well
as its effects on the community.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- ethnic cliques
- factory bumping
- Plant closing
- sewing room
- women's roles
Interviewee
Sharp, Raymond D.
March 28,
1985
Call Number
85-041
Physical Description
59 pages; 3 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 3 hours; index; photograph of
interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Raymond D. Sharp, Born on September 8, 1901, talks about the
various jobs he has worked throughout his life. He talks about being a natural
mechanic, probably from early work on a farm, which eventually led him to a job
at Studebaker. He describes the different jobs he worked at Studebaker,
especially in engineering, and the uncertainty of the work due to frequent
layoffs. Sharp discusses the organizing of the union, its relations with
management, and different issues it faced. He discusses the changes that took
place at Studebaker after World War II, particularly with labor after cost-
plus contracts with the government. He recalls how these had a great deal to do
with the decline of the plant among other factors such as poor management, lack
of quality in the product, and pressure on employees to drive only Studebaker
vehicles. He also compares Studebaker automobiles to various other cars of the
time.
-
Keywords
-
-
Personal Names
- Churchill, Harold E.
- Hill, James D.
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- cost-plus contracts
- engineering
- layoffs
- management
- plant decline
- unions
- workforce
Interviewee
Sharp, Raymond D.
July 3,
1985
Call Number
85-055
Physical Description
42 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours; index; photographs
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Raymond D. Sharp, born on September 8, 1901, describes working
at Studebaker, especially in the engineering department. He talks about working
conditions and how workers were treated by foremen. Sharp discusses the
organization of the union, situations that led to it, and how management
reacted toward it. He also discusses World War II and the changes that occurred
within the company both during and after. Sharp further discusses the closing
of Studebaker, how workers reacted upon finding out, and jobs afterwards.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Avanti Motor Corporation
-
-
Personal Names
- Churchill, Harold E.
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- labor-management relations
- Plant closing
- unions
- World War II
Interviewee
Sitarz, Frank
March 30,
1985
Call Number
85-040
Physical Description
36 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours; index; photographs
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Frank Sitarz, born on August 15, 1915, discusses his experiences
as a Studebaker employee. He talks about the family employment that was so
prevalent and about the working conditions before and after the union organized
and before, during, and after World War II. He discusses the social
organizations that were available through Studebaker prior to the war and
speaks about the various other changes that also occurred following World War
II. Sitarz speaks about the closing day at Studebaker and the reactions of the
workers as well as the disbelief they all felt. He discusses problems that may
have led to the closing lack of modernization, poor dealer organization, and
the Packard merger.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Studebaker Drivers Club
-
-
Personal Names
- Churchill, Harold E.
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- plant closing
- social organizations
- unions
- working conditions
Interviewee
Speeks, Alyce
July 28,
1985
Call Number
85-063
Physical Description
29 pages; 1 tape, 1 7/8 ips, 40 minutes; index; photographs
of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Alyce Speeks, born on July 9, 1911, describes the different jobs
she worked at Studebaker. She talks about the women that also worked at
Studebaker and their role of juggling work and home. Speeks discusses the
bumping system used throughout the company to secure jobs according to
seniority. She speaks of leaving Studebaker suspecting it would soon close, its
actual closing, and pension problems many workers then faced.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- factory bumping
- women's roles
Interviewee
Stroup, Verna
August 25,
1985
Call Number
85-047
Physical Description
23 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 65 minutes; index;
photographs of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin, L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Vera Stroup, born on March 31, 1914, speaks about her
experiences working at Studebaker. She talks about family members who also
worked at the plant, the friendly atmosphere, and the activities that were
available through Studebaker. She describes the different jobs she worked at
Studebaker and the changes that took place in the conditions once the union
became organized and during World War II. Stroup talks about other women who
worked there and juggling work and home. She discusses the closing of
Studebaker and the disbelief that many felt.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- plant closing
- unions
- women's roles
Interviewee
Thompson, Carl
July 9,
1984
Call Number
84-016
Physical Description
42 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours; index; biographical
data of interviewee, resume of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Carl Thompson, born on May 17, 1909, describes the positions he
held at Studebaker, the social atmosphere in the company and the activities
that were offered. He talks about the changes that occurred in the company
through the years especially during the receivership, and during and after
World War II. Thompson discusses the factors that contributed to Studebaker's
decline and eventual closing including its New York lawyers, management, and
the union. He talks about continuing to work for Studebaker following the
closing. He also talks about the Studebaker Drivers Club and Studebaker
Museum.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- General Motors Corporation
- Studebaker Drivers Club
-
-
Personal Names
- Anderson, Jane
-
-
Place Names
- Canada
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- labor relations
- Packard merger
- Plant closing
- plant decline
- receivership
- Studebaker Museum
- unions
- World War II
Interviewee
VanDaele, MaryAnne
August 23,
1985
Call Number
85-049
Physical Description
28 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 68 minutes; index;
photographs of interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
MaryAnne VanDaele, born on September 7, 1916, states that many
of her family members worked at Studebaker. She describes the many jobs she
held at Studebaker due to the bumping system. VanDaele discusses the role of
women in the company and the juggling of work and household duties. She also
talks about the social aspects of working at Studebaker. VanDaele speaks of the
closing of the Plant, what happened, and the effects it had on the workers.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- factory bumping
- Plant closing
- women's roles
Interviewee
Walters, Ray; Walters, Tillie
August 24,
1985
Call Number
85-057
Physical Description
22 pages; 1 tape, ! 7/8 ips, 56 minutes; index; photographs
of Ray Walters, biographical data of each interviewee
Interviewer
Zeff, Robin L.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Ray Walters, born on November 16, 1910, discusses being a third
generation worker at Studebaker. He describes working in the engineering
department and the experimental engineering that was done during World War II.
Walters discusses working with friends and the social atmosphere in the
company. He talks about the closing of Studebaker and finding another job
afterward. Ray's wife Tillie Walters, born on April 17, 1912, also comments on
these subjects throughout the interview. The talk about the Avanti automobile
as well.
-
Keywords
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Avanti automobile
- engineering
- Plant closing
- World War II
Interviewee
Warren, Margery
August 28,
1984
Call Number
84-021
Physical Description
56 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours; index; photograph of
interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Margery Warren, born on August 17, 1915, discusses working at
Studebaker in secretarial and legal work, and the different men she worked for.
She discusses the changes over the years, the Packard merger and how that made
a negative impact on the company. Warren speaks of the closing of Studebaker,
events leading up to it, its effects on the workers and the community, and the
great deal of work that followed during the phase-out period. She also talks
about the great quality of Studebaker automobiles.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- Studebaker Corporation
- Studebaker-Worthington Corporation
-
-
Personal Names
- Anderson, Jane
- Burlingame, Byers
- Churchill, Harold E.
- Clark, Paul
- Zenzinger, Ted
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Packard merger
- phase-out period
- Plant closing
- records disposal
Interviewee
Wiand, Dale
May 23,
1984
Call Number
84-011
Physical Description
43 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 70 minutes; index;
biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Bodnar, John
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Dale Wiand, born on January 31, 1915, discusses his life up to,
including and after working at Studebaker. He talks about getting a job at
Studebaker during the Great Depression and describes the job he did. Wiand
discusses World War II and the changes that occurred in the company during the
following decades including labor attitudes, job standards, wages, and union
activities. He also speaks about the closing of Studebaker, problems leading up
to it- mostly pertaining to money- and the struggles that followed such as
pension problems, and finding work.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- General Motors Corporation
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- employee attitudes
- pensions
- Plant closing
- World War II
Interviewee
Wolfram, Charles
May 23,
1984
Call Number
84-012
Physical Description
65 pages; 2 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 2 hours; index; photograph of
interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Bodnar, John
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Charles "Chuck" Wolfram, born in 1926, discusses his experiences
at Studebaker as he worked his way up from hourly pay to salary and then up in
management. He talks about the training that was provided for workers and how
that aided him. He discusses issues that came up between the union and
management from both angles including time-studies, strikes and agreements.
Wolfram discusses many misconceptions about what caused Studebaker to close
down, especially to do with union/ management problems, stating that the major
problem was instead in sales. He speaks about the actual closing of the plant
and what a shock it was as well as the hardships many faced afterwards.
-
Keywords
-
-
Corporation Names
- American Motors General
- Kaiser Jeep Corporation
-
-
Personal Names
- Egbert, Sherwood
- Gallagher, Gerald T.
- Macmillan, Clifford
-
-
Place Names
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- plant closing
- strikes
- time-study
- unions
Interviewee
Zenzinger, Theodore
July 25,
1984
Call Number
84-003
Physical Description
89 pages; 3 tapes, 1 7/8 ips, 3 hours; index; photograph of
interviewee, biographical data of interviewee
Interviewer
Wolford, John B.
Access Status
Open
Scope and Content Note
Theodore Zenzinger, born on May 17, 1908, discusses his
experiences with Studebaker. He describes the different jobs he had at
Studebaker, especially in the business aspect such as mergers, production, and
dealerships. He discusses the father-son employment of labor and how that was
used for publicity. He discusses World War II and the changes that occurred
within the company during and after that time that led to some problems like
over-employment. Zenzinger discusses foreseeing the close of the plant due to a
number of problems including poor dealer organization, poor management, poor
auto-body design, and the New York lawyers. He talks about working after the
closing of the Studebaker in South Bend, Indiana and about the production and
closing of the plant in Canada.
-
Keywords
-
-
Personal Names
- Burlingame, Byers
- Dunbar, Ed
- Egbert, Sherwood
- Elliot, Kenneth
-
-
Place Names
- Canada
- South Bend, Indiana
-
-
Subjects
- Packard merger
- phase-out period
- phase-out program
- Plant closing
- World War II