In 1968, women sewing-machine operators at Ford Motor Company's Dagenham plant in the United Kingdom went on strike after the automaker refused to recognize their work as skilled labor and pay them the same as male employees. Their auto upholstery strike was a landmark case in labor relations. Not only did it force Ford to temporarily halt manufacturing at the plant, it … [Read more...] about How Auto Trimmers Changed Labor History
Industry History
Flashback: First Automobile Safety Belt
Believe it or not, seat belt's weren't always standard in cars. In fact, for a long time they didn't even exist – which is what makes this magazine clipping about the introduction of the safety device all the more interesting. … [Read more...] about Flashback: First Automobile Safety Belt
Flashback: Door Panel Toiletry Kit
If you were upholstering or fabricating door panels in the 1930's, chances are you might have been asked to accommodate a mobile toiletry kit – including soap, towel, comb, mirror and bathroom sink. … [Read more...] about Flashback: Door Panel Toiletry Kit
Flashback: Auto Top Turned Motor Boat
We've seen a lot of bizarre convertible tops, but this one definitely takes the cake. As featured in an October 1921 issue of Popular Science magazine, an innovative Kansas man custom engineered the roof of his automobile-camper to double as a six-passenger motor boat. … [Read more...] about Flashback: Auto Top Turned Motor Boat
Flashback: First Modern Glove Box
We take it for granted that vehicle cabins come equipped with large, lockable glove boxes. But, believe it or not, that wasn't always the case. In February of 1932, an article appeared in Popular Science magazine introducing the feature as if it was a big deal – which, to car buyers back then, it was. … [Read more...] about Flashback: First Modern Glove Box
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