A Collection of Letters and Blueprint Maps Regarding the Relationship Between Nordyke & Marmon Co. and Indianapolis Union Railway Company from 1901 to 1938.

Indianapolis, Ind.: Nordyke & Marmon Co./ Indianapolis Union Railway Co., 1901. Typewritten. Very Good. No Binding. 4to - over 9¾ - 12" tall. Nordyke & Marmon began as a manufacturer of milling equipment, and they created their first automobile in 1902 using materials and machinery already at the plant. The commercial production of Marmon luxury cars began in 1904. They later pivoted entirely to automobile production and became known as the Marmon Motor Car Company in 1926. The West Indianapolis factory of Marmon was strategically located next to the Indianapolis Union Railway Company lines, which served as a lifeline forthe company to easily obtain materials. There are 70+ pieces of material in this collection including company correspondence on engraved letterheads, an original manuscript map of the property, estimates, contracts, and 5 blueprint maps for various railroad relocation and reconstruction projects regarding the Marmon & Nordyke property. Many of the pieces also include manuscript notes and/or signatures, including those of W.C. Marmon, President of Marmon Co., and J.J. Turner, President of The Indianapolis Union Railway Co. The Marmon factory was acquired by Eli Lilly & Company in 1946 and the building remains in use to this day by Lilly. Marmon is best known for the Marmon "Wasp", which Ray Harroun drove to victory in the first ever Indianapolis 500 mile race in 1911. Overall condition Very Good or better. Early material on Marmon Co. is quite uncommon. .