Hall Automotive: This Week in 1926 — July 1–7, 1926

America Celebrates 150 Years of Independence – and a New Era of Automobile Travel

As Hall Automotive celebrates 100 years in Wisconsin, we reflect on the pivotal moments that shaped America—and the automotive industry—during the birth of our company’s Wisconsin story with a Chevrolet dealership in 1926.

The first week of July 1926 was a time of celebration. America commemorated the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, while the automobile revolutionized how people celebrated, traveled, and connected.

For millions of Americans, Independence Day transformed from a simple hometown gathering into an exciting journey on the open road.

Automotive History: A Bridge to the Future

On July 1, 1926, the Delaware River Bridge—now known as the Benjamin Franklin Bridge—opened to traffic between Philadelphia and Camden, becoming the longest suspension bridge in the world and an engineering marvel.

More than just steel and concrete, the bridge symbolized America’s dedication to building the infrastructure necessary for a nation embracing travel by automobile. Across the country, new highways, bridges, and improved roads made travel faster, safer, and more enjoyable. Every mile of new roadway brought families closer together, opened new markets for businesses, and inspired Americans to explore beyond their hometowns.

As Hall Automotive’s Wisconsin journey started with a Chevrolet dealership in 1926, America was forging the roads that would carry generations of motorists into a bright future.

In the World: America Celebrates 150 Years

On July 4, 1926, communities nationwide celebrated the Sesquicentennial—the 150th anniversary of American independence. Vibrant parades filled Main Streets, bands performed patriotic concerts, and families gathered for picnics, baseball games, fireworks, and community celebrations.

Automobiles played an essential role in these festivities. Families packed their cars and traveled to parks, lakes, county fairs, and events that were once difficult to reach. The freedom of the open road became a cherished symbol of the American celebration of freedom itself.

A Century Later

One hundred years later, Independence Day remains one of America’s busiest travel holidays. Each summer, families continue the traditions that began in 1926—packing their cars, visiting loved ones, discovering new destinations, and creating lasting memories.

As Hall Automotive celebrates 100 years in Wisconsin, we proudly uphold a tradition that began with a Chevrolet dealership in 1926. Our organization has evolved to include Hall Volkswagen, Hall Mazda of Brookfield, our service operations, and a collision center dedicated to serving drivers in Southeastern Wisconsin.

Hall Automotive has proudly served Wisconsin drivers since 1926. As we celebrate our centennial year, we honor the innovations, milestones, and moments that have shaped both the automotive industry and the communities we cherish.

Hall Automotive — Serving Wisconsin Since 1926