The Studebaker Trees: A Living Advertisement - STILL

The Studebaker Trees: A Living Advertisement

In the early 1930s, the Studebaker Corporation was looking for a way to generate publicity for its cars. At the time, air travel was becoming increasingly popular, so the company decided to plant a living advertisement on the grounds of its proving grounds in New Carlisle, Indiana.

The Civilian Conservation Corps was tasked with planting the trees, which were carefully arranged to spell out "STUDEBAKER" when seen from the air. The trees were chosen for their height and straightness, and they were planted in rows that were spaced just far enough apart to allow the letters to be seen clearly.

The Studebaker trees were completed in 1938, and they quickly became a popular tourist attraction. Visitors could drive to the proving grounds and see the trees from the ground, or they could take a plane ride and see them from above.

The Studebaker trees stood for over 50 years, but they began to show their age in the 1990s. Invasive plants and storm damage took their toll, and the trees started to look a little shabby.

In 2012, a group of volunteers began a restoration project to save the Studebaker trees. They removed dead and diseased trees, and they planted 2,000 pine saplings in their place. The restoration project was a success, and the Studebaker trees are now once again a popular tourist attraction.

The Studebaker trees are a unique and fascinating piece of American history. They are a reminder of a time when air travel was still in its early days, and they are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Studebaker Corporation.

The Studebaker trees are located at the former Studebaker Proving Grounds, which is now part of the St. Joseph County Parks system. The trees are open to the public for viewing, and there is a short hiking trail that leads to them.

If you are ever in the northern Indiana area, I encourage you to visit the Studebaker trees. They are a reminder of a bygone era, and they are a beautiful sight to behold.

The track is now part of the Navistar Proving Grounds.

Source: Conversation with Bard
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