History of Torkelson Motors 

Torkelson Motors was organized in 1926 in Elgin, Iowa by Clarence Torkelson and his brothers Tom, Carl and Otto after securing a franchise to sell the Chrysler line of automobiles. The business was called Torkelson Bros. and was one of the very first Chrysler dealers in Iowa. Chrysler Corp. began operation in 1924 and had established a reputation for innovative engineering and excellent quality. It was the perfect match for the principles mandated by the Torkelson Brothers. The business grew and prospered for 23 years serving Elgin and the surrounding area with the leadership of the original brothers. In 1949 Clarence Torkelson' s son Ivan & wife Eleanor, assumed ownership of the company and changed the name to Torkelson Motors. In 1978, their son Bruce and his wife Susan became partners in the business. Torkelson Motors then opened their second dealership in Waukon on Highway #9. By 1986, the need for an expanded service department and additional vehicle display space brought about the construction of a new facility at the present location on Highway #76 North. As the business grew three additions were added to the original building in the succeeding years. Bruce manages the Waukon Facility today. In 1985, Ivan's son Dirk and his wife Cindy became partners in the business. The Elgin dealership is now managed by Dirk, who has completely remodeled the facility and added a large addition to the service department. Dirk's three sons Jerrod, Brandon and Cody have now joined the business, making Torkelson Motors a four generation family business. The Torkelson Family association with Chrysler spans over 94 years and is among the very first Chrysler dealers in the United States.