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.