Jonathan Dixon Maxwell

September 3, 1864-March 8, 1928

Jonathan Dixon Maxwell was born near Russiaville, Indiana. He grew up to be an expert mechanic and engine designer. His interest in mechanics and automobiles led him to form a partnership with Benjamin Briscoe and together in 1893 they formed the Maxwell-Briscoe Motor Company. Production of Maxwell cars began in 1904 and continued until 1925 when the Maxwell Motor Company became Chrysler. Over a span of 21 years over 600,000 Maxwells were produced, some of them in their plant in New Castle, Indiana. The Maxwell Motor Company was consistently among the top ten U.S car producers.