Unidentified woman standing next to an automobile parked along the bay: Coral Gables, Florida

The automobile was first invented and perfected in Germany and France in the late 1890s. Americans quickly came to dominate the automotive industry after WWI. Throughout this initial era, the development of automotive technology was rapid. Hundreds of small manufacturers competing to gain the world's attention. Key developments included the electric ignition system, independent suspension, and four-wheel brakes. Transmissions and throttle controls were widely adopted and safety glass also made its debut. Henry Ford perfected mass-production techniques, and Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler emerged as the “Big Three” auto companies by the 1920s. Car manufacturers received enormous orders from the military during World War II, and afterward automobile production in the United States, Europe, and Japan soared.

Vintage photos from The State Archives of Florida shot before WWII. The State Archives of Florida is the central repository for the archives of Florida State Government. It is mandated by law to collect, preserve, and make available for research the historically significant records of the State, as well as private manuscripts, local government records, photographs, and other materials that complement the official State records. The images included here are part of The Florida Memory Program, which provides Web-based access to primary records that illustrate significant moments in Florida's history. The project also provides educational resources for students of all ages, and makes available collections for historical research. Florida Memory's goal is to make the collections of the State Archives available to the largest possible audience. Florida Memory is funded under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the Florida Department of State, Division of Library and Information Services.

Classic and Antique Cars

Cars of the 1920s.