Automotive History Online

Franklin

1902-1934

From 1902 to 1934, Franklin, a New York based automaker, produced one of the most impressive series of motor cars to have ever graced the roadways. Although their phaetons, roadsters and touring sedans may not have been so well known, their presence had no equal.

Franklins were a technically innovative automobile that kept a great deal of its excellence hidden beneath the hood. The engine was directly air cooled, eliminating the need for a water pump, gaskets, hoses, fan belts and anti-freeze. All of this can be credited to John Wilkinson, the company’s vice-president and engineering guru who often had no trouble persuading people of his marvelous ideas. Focusing his attention on the chassis, Wilkinson devised a wooden frame constructed of three-ply laminated ash that was lighter than steel and could absorb shock better than any man-made material at the time. To help increase sales, the company put forth much effort into advertising campaigns addressing the high quality, light weight and progressive engineering features built into every Franklin automobile.

By 1924, the company encountered a turning point as Wilkinson withdrew from the organization and dealers who argued for years about having the ‘appearance’ of a radiator finally got their wish. The Franklins, now more conventional in design, also offered a greater variety in body styles.

Franklin Automobiles

1902 Franklin Runabout