Exhibits

local auto manucacturing

The large auto industry in Madison County, Indiana is a direct result of the earlier discovery of natural gas in the area.  The gas wells brought industrial revolution to the region.  Among the many industries were 28 motorized vehicle manufacturers like the Lambert Motor Car, the Rider-Lewis, the Nyberg, the Laurel Racer, and the Anderson Carriage, one of which is installed in our museum’s lobby.  As the gas wells became depleted, many manufacturers moved out, leaving a large knowledgeable workforce, railroads, and a commercial infrastructure. 

Nyberg Pheaton - WWI

That is when General Motors in the mid 1920s started moving in. Eventually, GM had two manufacturing divisions in Anderson: Delco-Remy and Guide Lamp. These two, in turn, had many factories on site producing automotive components parts. Delco-Remy produced all the electronic mechanisms for vehicles; Guide Lamp specialized in the lights for GM autos.

The Museum of Madison County History has examples of these component parts produced down through the decades as well as pictures of workers, management, and factory structures. Division newsletters, advertising, and the financial and data records from both the Remy Electric Company, which became Delco-Remy, and Guide Lamp Manufactured Automotive Lighting are also securely stored and are available for research. 

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