Greyhound Lines, a name synonymous with intercity bus travel in the United States, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Founded in 1914, the company began as a modest transportation service in Minnesota and evolved into a major player in the American transportation industry. This article delves into the formative years of Greyhound Lines, highlighting its growth from a small operation to a national corporation headquartered
in Chicago.
The Humble Beginnings
Greyhound Lines traces its origins to 1914 when Eric Wickman, a Swedish immigrant, started a transportation service using a seven-passenger Hupmobile. Wickman, along with fellow immigrants Andy Anderson and C.A.A. Heed, began transporting iron ore miners between Hibbing and Alice, Minnesota. Despite the harsh Minnesota winters, Wickman persevered, expanding his routes and merging his company with Ralph Bogan's service to form the Mesaba Transportation Company in 1915.
By 1918, the company had grown to include 18 vehicles and boasted an annual income of $40,000. Wickman and Heed eventually sold their interests to Bogan and Anderson, who continued to expand the business. Wickman then moved to Duluth, acquiring White Bus Lines and forming Northland Transportation Company, which played a pivotal role in Greyhound's expansion.
Expansion and Consolidation
The 1920s were a period of significant growth for Greyhound Lines. In 1925, Wickman completed the acquisition of eight independent bus lines in Minnesota, further solidifying the company's presence in the region. By 1928, Greyhound was offering trips across the United States, with an income of $6 million. The company acquired the Yelloway-Pioneer System, which had made the first transcontinental bus trip, and The Pickwick Corporation, expanding its reach and influence.
In 1929, Greyhound acquired interests in Gray Line Worldwide and part of the Colonial Motor Coach Company, forming Eastern Greyhound Lines. The company also renamed Northland Transportation Company to Northland Greyhound Lines, marking a significant milestone in its journey.
Establishing a National Presence
By 1930, Greyhound Lines had consolidated over 100 bus lines into its parent company, then known as Motor Transit Corporation. Recognizing the need for a memorable name, the company adopted the Greyhound name, inspired by a driver's observation of a bus's reflection resembling a greyhound. This rebranding was a strategic move that helped establish Greyhound as a household name.
In the same year, Greyhound moved its headquarters from Duluth, Minnesota, to Chicago, Illinois, positioning itself as a major gateway for highway travel between the East and West. Despite the challenges of the Great Depression, Greyhound continued to thrive, setting the stage for its future success as a leader in intercity bus travel.
