Detroit Steel Artists: How Edsel Ford, Ray Dietrich, Tom Hibbard, and Ralph Roberts Turned Motor City into a Styling Mecca Before Harley Earl

Custom coachbuilt cars weren't built for the masses - they were designed to please the wealthy clientele who could afford to commission the amazingly beautiful Packards and Lincolns that wear the designs of Tom Hibbard and Ray Dietrich. Seeing the beauty of these automobiles in person make me curious to know the story of the designers and how their designs were featured on the most desirable cars of the 1920s and 1930s. Over the years I've managed to pick up bits of stories about the designers and the founding of LeBaron and Dietrich Inc. But I somehow knew there was much more to their story. In one book Matthew Kilkenny describes the history of LeBaron and Dietrich custom coachbuilding, connects all of the players of that era - Ford, Packard and many others - and answers all of my questions. His research and pleasant writing style makes for an entertaining read, a page turner that provides surprises on every page.

This is a car book unlike any I have read in the last 30 years. In an entertaining and expertly researched fashion it provides the backstory behind some of the most important men of the custom coachbuilding era in the US. Ray Dietrich, Ralph Roberts, Tom Hibbard, and some of the other greats are given a thorough biographical examination. There is fascinating information in this book that I have never seen anywhere else. An absolute requirement for any serious car buff and collector. Well done Mr. Kilkenny!

One of the best books ever done on great cars of the Classic era. A must have for any true car collector.

A beautiful book! Amazing insight into the trials and tribulations of Dietrich & Hibbard, while simultaneously showcasing their apparent joy for style and innovation. The stories are extremely personable and allow even a car novice to enjoy the ride. Readers are swept up in the celebration of a remarkable era in design.

If you are interested in custom bodied cars, built in the U.S. in the 1920's, this book provides the completepicture. Well written, with beautiful photos and early renderings. The perfect gift for an auto enthusiast.

This book is thoroughly researched and well written. Printed on high quality paper with lots of color photos throughout, this book is a must for and car enthusiast

Great Pictures of LeBaron , Dietrich and Hibbard & Darrin Packards, Duesenbergs, Lincolns and Chryslers - and terrific research and details about these pioneers of custom styling and coachwork. An essential book for car enthusiasts!

Very well researched, easy to read and accessible to non-car afficionadoes. Beautifully laid out with lots of great pictures. Mat has done an amazing job presenting a subject he obviously loves dearly...