Automotive Pioneer John Willys Writes on Willys Overland Company Letterhead

John N. Willys (1873 - 1935). American automotive pioneer. He got his start selling cars at his dealership in Indiana. The company sold the Overland brand, and when the Overland Company ran into production problems Willys acquired the company. Despite being rather new to the business, Willys proved to be an excellent operator. He changed the name of the company to the Willys-Overland Motor Company in 1912 and later acquired Edwards Motor Co of New York. When Willys acquired the Edwards Motors Co, it came with a license to manufacture the patented Knight “sleeve valve” engine. This engine design helped the company become the United States’ second leading car manufacturer. Willys is well known for his move to hire General Motors vice-president Walter Chrysler for, at the time, an astonishing salary of $1 million per year. Chrysler attempted to place a bid to takeover the company, but the move was rejected by stockholders. Due to this, Chrysler was forced to enter business by himself in 1921, and this gave birth to the Chrysler Corporation that still produces cars today. TLS. 1 Ppge. 7 1/4" x 10 1/2". January 27, 1926. A congratulatory letter sent to an employee for winning a sales derby. Willys talks of the employees leadership and discusses his intention to send him a “21-jewel” gold watch in addition to the prizes he won for the derby. Accompanied by another corporate letter notifying the recepient of his being awarded the prize. Excellent.