Detroit Exhibit Celebrates Invention of Semi-Trailer
The Detroit Historical Museum on June 8 opened “Fruehauf: The First Name in Transportation.” It recognizes the creation of August Fruehauf, a German blacksmith and wagon maker, who along with Otto Neumann built the first semi-trailer in 1914 for Detroit businessman Frederic Sibley, who wanted a trailer that could be towed behind a Ford Model-T to transport a boat.
After that proved successful, Sibley asked for trailers that he could use in his lumber yard. As interest grew, Fruehauf launched Fruehauf Trailer Co. in 1918. Businesses seized on the idea for hauling goods, and for decades, Fruehauf had a thriving enterprise.
Wabash National acquired the retail network and other assets of Fruehauf in 1997.
The Detroit Historical Museum exhibit features photos and memorabilia from the Fruehauf family's collection, including innovations to the trucking industry. A restored 1916 Fruehauf trailer and matching Ford Model-T are on display. The exhibit, developed in partnership with the Fruehauf Trailer Historical Society, will be open until June 2016.
