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CHECKER
CAR CLUB OF AMERICA
FUN CAR!
The Checker Marathon
Goes practically everywhere, thanks to extra rugged build. Holds
the whole gang, with or without optional jump seats. Lots of room
for camping gear and sports equipment, too. Sedans, station
wagons, limousines, each with extra-wide opening doors, a design
that never goes out of style, a go-go-go attitude that never
stops.
CHECKER CAR CLUB OF AMERICA...
was organized in April 1982 for the preservation, enjoyment, and
information on Checker automobiles from 1922-1982 (year
production ceased). Ownership is not a prerequisite for
membership. Free Ads to members in "Checkerboard News".
TAKING A STROLL DOWN MEMORY LANE...
Checker Motors, founded by Morris Markin in 1922 in Joliet,
Illinois, has been a part of the Kalamazoo community since April
of 1923, with the production of the first taxicab rolling off the
assembly line on June 18, 1923.
Prior to the onset of World War II, Checker Motors produced
several cars, including the Checker Limousine and the Landau in
1924, and the Series "K" (a real traffic stopper) in
1928. In 1929 Checker acquired Yellow Cab of Chicago and produced
a new Series "K." A year later, the new "M"
was introduced.
In 1931, Checker expanded to produce the station wagon-type
vehicle that could be converted into an ambulance in addition to
accepting a new contract for 1000 cabs from Chicago Yellow Cab.
Times were rough during the depression, but in 1935 the Series
"Y" (similiar to the Ford V) caught and business seemed
to improve steadily through 1939 when the final design for the
Checker was started.
During World War II, when Checker Motors wasn't building Checker
Cars, it was producing trailers for Sears-Roebuck, truck cabs for
Ford and an Army Jeep. There were only three jeeps made to
Government Specs, one of which is still located at the Checker
Plant.
David Markin took command of the Checker steering wheel in 1970
and began leading the company down different avenues. The Aerobus
was reintroduced and Checker Motors was down to 4 models...never
to introduce another again.
A sad day indeed-July 12, 1982-the last iron horse Checker rolled
off the assembly line bearing the green and ivory colors. The
"Roll Royce" for the taxi industry retired.
MEMBERSHIP
Dues are $10 (North America) $15 (Foreign) U.S. Funds. A
quarterly newsletter is sent out in January, April, July and
October.

CHECKER CAR CLUB OF AMERICA
Roy Dickinson, Editor
10530 W. Alabama Ave.
Sun City, AZ 85351-3544
PH: 602-974-4987
FAX: 602-974-4987
President, G. Richard Thomas
PO Box 586
Stillwater, OK 74076-0586
888-691-0875
Copyright © 1997 The Auto Channel.
Send questions, comments, and suggestions to
Editor-in-Chief@theautochannel.com