The Columbus Buggy Company introduced the Columbus Electric in 1903 as a folding top runabout which would be the sole body style until 1906 when several additional configurations were added to the lineup. By 1910, the company reached the highest level of production to date, with over 1,000 Electrics built. The Columbus Buggy Company was also doing well, having introduced a gasoline-powered Highwheeler vehicle in 1907 and continued through 1908. For 1909, it was marketed as the Firestone-Columbus, in recognition of the president of Columbus Buggy, Clinton DeWitt Firestone. Unlike the prior Columbus of 1907 and 1908, the Firestone-Columbus was not a high-wheeler and sold for more than double the $750 price of the prior Columbus Highwheeler. Approximately 500 examples of the Firestone-Columbus were built in 1909. Wheelbases typically measured 100- to 130-inches during the short lifespan of the company, lasting from 1909 through 1915. Power was from a four-cylinder engine which produced 25- to 40 horsepower.

The quick demise of the company could be attributed to several factors. The prior high-wheeler was popular because many mid-western farmers were familiar with the wagon-like design, were able to cross water, and proved capable of traveling the under-developed roads of the era. The low price was also attractive and affordable to a wider clientele. The $1,800 Firestone-Columbus was sophisticated and modern, but it was a dramatic change from the vehicle it replaced. Also, the Firestone-Columbus implemented changes immediately rather than on an annual basis like many other manufacturers.

By 1913, the Columbus Buggy Company was in financial distress, and on February 22nd of 1914, Clinton Firestone was found dead at his apartment due to apoplexy. Charles A. Finnegan and Eugene D. Hofeller of the E.R. Thomas Company in Buffalo, New York, acquired the company in 1914. The company was reorganized as the New Columbus Buggy Company, and production continued for a short time, ending in 1915.

The Firestone-Columbus Company employed advanced features for its era, including a drop-center chassis by 1910, left-hand steering, a center gear change in 1911, and an acetylene starter.

In 1911, chief engineer and designer Lee Frayer, along with Eddie Rickenbacker who had worked with him at Miller-Frayer, brought a Firestone-Columbus to the inaugural Indianapolis 500. The pair started in 26th place with their Red Wing Special and managed to finish 13th.

by Dan Vaughan