1923 Chandler Model 32

The Cleveland-based Chandler Company produced automobiles in the mid-price range. Founded in 1913 by Fred Chandler, the company experienced immediate success with a quality car with a competitive price tag. By the early 1920s, the Chandler Company was Cleveland's largest producer of automobiles and ranked 13th in US production. Their popularity continued to prosper during the mid-1920s, but by 1928 they were purchased by the Hupp Motor Company. A year later they were out of business. The onset of the Great Depression, World War I, a changing economy, and fierce competition were a few of the reasons for the company's demise.

Perhaps Chandler's most famous employee was 18-year-old Bob Hope, who worked in the parts department. He developed a rapport with three other individuals with melodious voices, and they formed an impromptu quartet. They used the department dictating machine to record their singing, which nearly cost them their jobs.

For 1923, Chandler gave new names for its models to add flair to the line. The two-door sedan was named the 'Chummy' and their four-door vehicle was the 'Metropolitan'. These vehicles were offered alongside the Royal Dispatch Sport touring car, with cycle-style fenders, step plats for running boards, and side-mount spares attached high on the cowl.

by Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2010