Location: Jackson, MI - Collins Manufacturing/Commercial Exchange

The Collins Manufacturing Company built a plant in Jackson, on East Michigan Avenut along their eastern border with Blackman township. The plant was served by rail on the Jackson belt line.

Image info: A postcard view of the plant in the early 1900's. [Jackson Historical Society]

Notes

The company was the largest manufacturers of buggies, road wagons, phaetons, surreys, road-carts and cutters in the United States. They employed 300-400 men.

This facility became the "Commercial Exchange" which continues to exist today.

Time Line

1885. The company was incorporated and quickly became a significant force in the American light vehicle industry. Henry .H. Smith, who was founder and board member of a number of start-up railroads in Jackson was Secretary-Treasurer, and his brother Dwight S. Smith was president.

1889. A second building is erected adjoining the current building. Their trade in road carts has assumed such proportions that they are greatly cramped for room. [DFP-1889-0810]

1895. The company produced approximately 20,000 vehicles, including 7,000 sleighs and cutters.

1895. The company facility burned to the ground, and a new building was immediately constructed.

1908. The building is purchased by the Jackson Automobile Company, which made the "Jackson" automobile.

1909. Three additional buildings are added to the complex.

1922. The building was purchased by the Cardon Phonocraft Corp which made neon signs and radio receivers.

1930. The building was purchased by the Sparks-Withington company (Spartan Corporation) which made auto parts.

1961. The manufacturing complex was purchased by a new owner, who renamed the building the "Commercial Exchange Building." [Wiki]