Historic Ford Dealership Closes After 100 Years: Owner Shares Complicated Reasons
A historic Ford dealership in Holden, Massachusetts, is preparing to close its doors after more than 100 years in business. Sunnyside Ford, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in March, will officially cease operations on November 22, 2024.
A Rich History
Originally opened in 1923 as a garage servicing Ford Model Ts, Sunnyside Ford became an official dealership in 1924. Over the decades, it has become a beloved fixture in the community, providing sales and service for the iconic car brand.
Difficult Decision to Close
In a heartfelt interview with Spectrum News 1, Sunnyside’s president and general manager, Dan Harrington, discussed the evolution of the automotive industry during his tenure and the challenges of running the family business, which has spanned three generations. At 74 years old, Harrington acknowledged it was time to retire, stating, “It’s definitely been more complicated in the last 10 years or so.”
He reflected on how cars have changed over the years, noting, “You get in the car, you turn the key and boom… now, they won’t do that on you. A lot of safety features that are great, some are a pain, but they’re for the benefit of everybody.”
Heartfelt Goodbye
Sunnyside Ford announced its closure in a heartfelt post on Facebook, expressing gratitude to employees and customers: “The decision to close was a very difficult one. We will miss our employees, customers, and being part of the Holden community.”
The dealership employs approximately 20 staff members at its location on Main Street.
Community Response
The news of the dealership’s closure has prompted an outpouring of support from the community. One Facebook user reminisced about their 32 years working with the Harrington family, while another expressed sadness at the end of a 100-year run, stating it would be an adjustment to no longer see the Ford sign on Main Street.
A long-time customer added, “Sunnyside is the best of the best. I bought every car I owned in Massachusetts from Sunnyside Ford, over 40 years. Always treated professionally both on sales and service. So sorry to hear this.”
The Legacy of the Ford Model T
Sunnyside Ford’s opening coincided with the waning popularity of the Ford Model T, which was produced from 1908 to 1927. The Model T is widely recognized as the first mass-affordable automobile, revolutionizing transportation for middle-class Americans with over 15 million units sold. It held the title of the best-selling car in history until the Volkswagen Beetle surpassed it in 1972. Today, Ford sells nearly 2 million cars annually in the U.S.
Other Automotive News
In related news, a classic car enthusiast’s collection of 24 vehicles, including a Ford Model A and a striking red 1953 Sedan, was recently sold at auction following the death of collector Peter Learmont. Additionally, last month, Ford issued a recall for 144,500 trucks due to a potentially dangerous issue that could lead to crashes, affecting one of the automaker’s best-selling models.
