The Big Car Database

Ames

The Ames, originally established in 1881 by Frederick A. Ames, was a buggy manufacturer and later an American automobile manufacturer in Owensboro, Kentucky, from 1910 to 1925.

A beetle-backed "gentleman's roadster" and a five-passenger tourer were the first models offered for sale by the company. The company also produced replacement bodies for the Ford Model T. At its peak the company produced approximately 30,000 vehicles. The last model the company made was called "The Kentucky Thoroughbred." In 1922, the company again remade itself, manufacturing furniture under the name F. A. Ames Corporation until 1941 when F.A. Ames Corp. filed for bankruptcy and most of its assets were purchased by the Whitehall Furniture Co. of Owensboro.

Frederic A. Ames died in 1925 at the age of 60. At the time of his death, Ames was reported to have vast real estate holding in Owensboro and Atlanta, Georgia. His widow, the former Mary M. McMannon, died in 1933. Although the Ames had no children of their own, Mary's niece, Marie had been raised in their home as an adopted child, and inherited most of Ames' fortune.

A 2 passenger roadster and a five passenger touring car were the first models produced.

The 1912 Ames "45" Kentucky Thoroughbred was equipped with electric self starter, electric lights, Schebler carburetor, Remy dual magneto, Warner clutch, Stewart speedometer and mohair tops.

The Ames Kentucky Thoroughbred automobiles were equipped with two cycle four cylinder engines that developed 45 horsepower. It had a friction transmission and double chain drive. In 1912 the Ames was priced at $1,785.00.

The 1913 Ames used a long stroke powerful Continental engine. Equipped with electric lights, self starter, left hand drive, "Amesbilt Body" and tops this American Automobile sold for $1635.00.