Dorris Motors Corporation
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | St. Louis Motor Company |
| Founded | 1906 |
| Founder | George Preston Dorris |
| Fate | Bankruptcy in 1926 |
| Headquarters | St. Louis , United States |
| Products | Automobiles, Trucks |
The Dorris Motor Car Company was established in 1906 by George Preston Dorris. Originally hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, Dorris constructed an experimental gasoline automobile around 1896–1897 within his family's bicycle shop. After moving to St. Louis, Missouri, he collaborated with John L. French to form the St. Louis Motor Company, where Dorris served as the chief engineer.
When French relocated to Peoria, Illinois in 1905, Dorris departed to create the Dorris Motor Car Company. Subsequently, French's enterprise rapidly ceased operations.
History
Dorris is recognized for inventing and securing a patent for the float carburetor, an essential technology utilized for many years. The company adopted the motto "Built up to a standard, not down to a price."
Production vehicle
The firm assumed control of the original St. Louis Motor Company factory and commenced manufacturing there. Their initial model was equipped with a four-cylinder engine and featured a wheelbase, gaining notable attention at the New York Automobile Show in January 1906. Over subsequent years, Dorris vehicles increased in power, incorporating six-cylinder OHV engines—an uncommon feature at the time—and extending the wheelbase by nearly . These automobiles were priced at approximately $7,000.
In 1909, Guy Herring Hall Sr. and his brother George set a Missouri cross-state driving record by completing the journey in 33 hours behind the wheel of a Dorris.
Prior to World War I, the company diversified into truck manufacturing. In 1917, its capital stock was raised by $700,000 to reach $1,000,000 to facilitate expansion. That same year, president H.B. Krenning resigned due to health issues and was replaced by W.R. Colcord.
Production models
- Dorris Model F Touring Car
Astra acquisition
In 1920, Dorris purchased Astra (1920 automobile), a rival manufacturer based in St. Louis, subsequently reorganizing as Dorris Motors Corporation.
By 1923, speculation emerged regarding a possible merger involving Dorris, Haynes, and Winton, although this alliance never came to fruition.
Company failure
The year 1923 represented the final full production period for Dorris Motors. Manufacturing output declined sharply afterward, with their nearly handcrafted automobiles produced solely on special request until the company declared bankruptcy in 1926.